Issues with Student Assessment (The story of Obim part 13)

 

Issues with Student Assessment

Upon locating Sir Innocent Onyemaize, Obim and Meme nearly received a punishment for attempting to access the staff room while disheveled.

Two girls, already under punishment, were inside the staff room; they left after a conversation with the teacher.

Traditionally, children of teachers were distinguishable by the higher discipline instilled in them, often making them more intelligent and adept in academics.

However, Obim observed that a student's grade frequently depended on their relationship with their teachers rather than merit.

A fellow student, renowned for securing the top rank, was permitted to submit the exam answer sheets to the teacher's office post-examination.

This student was later found in the Biology Lab, altering his answers from those of a classmate who usually ranked second.

To Obim's astonishment, the teacher overlooked this malpractice, favoring the student due to his preferred status.

In a certain primary school in Oguta, a teacher was caught consuming a student's lunch, an act demeaning for educators and detrimental to the child's welfare.

This misconduct likely results in the child receiving preferential grading over their peers.

Read Next: Part 14

THE GIRLS WERE ADMIRING US (The story of Obim part 12)

THE GIRLS WERE ADMIRING US

Obim, Chukwuka, Chidum, and Meme were left with no choice but to kneel in front of their peers on the assembly ground.

I recall the time Obim and Meme visited Oguta Girls' High School to meet Meme's father, a teacher at the school. The rules there prohibit students from leaving or bringing in visitors without the security guard's permission at the gate. Fortunately, Obim and Meme received the needed permission and upon entering the school grounds, they immediately caught the attention of the girls outside. Many of them dashed into classrooms to spread the word about the visitors.

Upon reaching the staff room and finding Meme's father absent, Obim and Meme chose to tour the school premises in search of him. During their walk, they passed by some students who were kneeling as a form of punishment, all of whom turned to see the boys.

Continue reading part 13

OLD DAYS AT SCHOOL (The story of Obim part 11)

 

Old Days at School

Attending school in those days was brimming with enjoyment; we would trek all the way from Egwe to Trinity High School in Oguta.

The school uniform consisted of a shirt and trousers, complemented by a brown belt and sandals.

Our appearance alone was strikingly neat. At that time, Trinity was an all-boys school. Obim, who was previously known as Obiah, had friends who attended the same school and lived in the same neighborhood. Obim's younger brother, Chukwuka, was in the same class due to Obim's experiences at Adimeri Nursery and Primary School.

There were also two brothers, Chidum and Meme, the elder and the younger respectively, who were in the same class with Obim.

All of them had attended Adimeri Nursery and Primary School before Obim's family relocated to Egwe, moving into the same compound as Chidum and Meme.

It was quite the coincidence; upon arriving at the new compound, Chidum and Meme were surprised to see their classmates.

Dressed up for school, Obim, Chukwuka, Chidum, and Meme were fortunate enough to be offered a lift by someone with a car.

Upon their arrival at the school premises, the sight of them drew the attention of the students who were gathered for the morning assembly.

A teacher approached and requested Obim and his friends to kneel down, but it was difficult for the boys, who had arrived in a car, to kneel down and face humiliation before the other students. The man who had given them a lift knelt down, leaving Obim and his friends in an embarrassed state. The teacher exclaimed, "Yes, that's my student; I taught him."

This incident revealed that the man was an alumnus of Trinity High School in Oguta and had been taught by the teacher.

While the man remained kneeling, the boys stood by, witnessing the scene.

READ THE STORY OF OBIM PART 12

The Reality of Life

 

The Reality of Life

Children's aspirations are often a far cry from the harsh truths of existence.

The journey from dreaming about a future profession to actually embarking on that career path can be fraught with challenges.

·        I want to be a doctor

·        I want to be a nurse

·        I want to be a lawyer

·        I want to be a pilot

·        I want to be an Engineer

·        I want to be the president of  my country

While dreaming big is commendable, the true measure of success lies in actively pursuing those dreams to fruition.

Consider a child who aspires to be a lawyer but does not take their studies seriously, demonstrating a propensity to lie at the slightest provocation.

A secondary school student dreaming of becoming an Engineer yet avoiding Physics and other crucial subjects poses a significant question: How can one fulfill such a dream without conquering the foundational challenges inherent in the field?

It appears that many of the ambitions children label as dreams and visions are merely figments of imagination and illusion.

Interestingly, it is often those with the greatest dreams who find themselves entrenched in poverty.

Spending six years in secondary education, followed by five years in tertiary education, only to consider joining the police force post-graduation due to the stark realities of life underscores a pivotal issue. Options like enrolling in a police academy early on are overlooked, leading some to alter their age to qualify.

Life demands hard work and determination to achieve one's goals, as it doesn’t freely hand out desires and aspirations.

The women seen in the market today once harbored their own dreams. Many wished to change the world, only to have the world shape them into their current roles.

It is worth pondering whether taxi drivers once held dreams of a different future.

Envision a youngster who dreams of presidency indulging in frivolous relationships, mistakenly believing such actions pave the way to success. Unlike Joseph from the Bible who resisted temptation to maintain his integrity, today’s youth often seek such distractions, undermining their own aspirations.

Life's journey becomes easier when we choose the right path and harder when we stray.

The current trend of pursuing quick gains through questionable means without considering the consequences is alarming.

Dreams gradually fade when confronted with the reality that life often delivers the opposite of what one hopes for.

Ultimately, individuals tend to become products of their circumstances rather than the person they once dreamed to become.

 

A SHOCKING REMINDER

In the heart of a tumultuous storm, nestled within the walls of my cozy living room, I encountered a jolt that would reverberate through the corridors of my memory and teachings. There I was, sitting by my trusty solar inverter, the lifeline during power outages, my phone plugged in, absorbing power, while I indulged in the casual chatter of an online conversation. The rain beat against the windows, a symphony of nature's unrest, when suddenly, a thunderclap shattered the rhythm, sending a shock through the device and into me. My phone, once a beacon of connection, lay forsaken on the ground, as I grappled with the tangible fear that quaked through my bones.

This moment was not merely a shock to the system but a stark echo of a memory long buried. I was transported back to a time when I stood as a wide-eyed observer, watching my father experience a similar fate. He, too, sat too close to an electric device during a storm, our family's deep freezer his unwitting adversary. With my youngest sibling in his arms, a sudden bolt from the heavens sent a shock through his body, his shout of surprise igniting a pervasive fear that enveloped our home. That incident, while frightening at the moment, had since faded into the tapestry of family lore, a cautionary tale we would half-heartedly chuckle over.

Irony, in its most bitter form, presented itself to me on that stormy day. Here I was, a victim of the very circumstances I had often warned others against. For years, I advocated for the dangers of using electronic devices while charging, especially during a storm. Yet, in a moment of complacency, I found myself ensnared by the very trap I had so diligently flagged for others. This experience served not as a mere shock but as a humbling teacher.

The lessons gleaned from this event extend beyond the immediate physical jolt. They reminded me that no matter how far we may come or how knowledgeable we believe ourselves to be, vulnerability to oversight and accidents remains. My experience, mirrored by my father's years before, stands as a testament to the unpredictable power of nature and our interactions with the technological tools at our disposal. It has reignited within me a passion to educate, to share not just the theoretical warnings but the vivid realities that accompany our lapses in judgment.

With renewed vigor, I have taken this incident as a catalyst for conversation and learning. By sharing my story through articles and discussions, I hope to illuminate the risks of complacency when handling electronic devices, especially during weather disturbances. It is my desire that by exposing my own faults, others may heed the call to exercise caution, safeguarding themselves against the raw might of nature's fury intertwined with technology. In the end, it is through our shared stories and experiences that we can foster a safer and more informed community.

Thus, as the storm cleared and my heart found its steady beat once again, the lesson was clear: experiences, especially those sharp with shock, serve as the most poignant teachers. It is up to us to heed their teachings, share their wisdom, and protect not just ourselves but those within our sphere of influence from becoming another tale of irony.

 

A Dance of Digital Love

Evening greetings spark a tender exchange, Morning brings cool replies, and affection's range. Church missed, and daily rhythms briefly align, Missed calls, misunderstandings in the night refine.

A request to see, declarations softly told, Navigations of distance, and plans to behold. In this digital age, where hearts are wide, Yet, find themselves often on opposite sides.

Messages sent like ships in the night, Hoping to catch a glimpse of each other's light. "I wasn't around," echoes softly, a missed chance, Okays and no’s, in this peculiar dance.

The careless whispers of "How was your day?" A simple "Cool," but so much more they convey. "I love you" sent across the digital waves, Finding solace in the bond that it saves.

In the shadows of missed connections and time, They weave through text, a rhythm, a rhyme. "Let me know when you're coming," a hopeful plea, For in each other’s presence, they long to be.

Opposite sides of a town, yet so near, In the quest for closeness, they conquer their fear. A tapestry of texts, a modern love’s quest, In each other, they find their hearts' rest.

As the night whispers to the dawn's early light, Their digital dance continues, bold and bright. Through the pixels and screens, their spirits soar, In this unlikely dance, who could ask for more?

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Analyzing Parental Love

 Analyzing Parental Love Through Children's Eyes

The emotional bonds between children and their parents are complex, intricately woven with feelings, actions, and societal norms that dictate and influence these relationships from a very early age. The age-old question of whom a child loves more, their mother or father, does not only stir a pot of emotional debate but also unveils layers of deep-seated beliefs and practices prevalent in our society. This essay seeks to explore these notions, digging into the reasons behind children's evident preference for one parent over the other, and shedding light on the intricate dynamics that govern these relationships.

Why Children May Favor Mothers

Observations and anecdotal evidence suggest that a majority of children express a stronger attachment to their mothers than to their fathers. This phenomenon could be attributed to the traditional role that mothers play in the upbringing of their children. They are often the primary caregivers, the ones most children run to for comfort, nurturing, and immediate needs, especially during their tender years. This maternal presence and availability could be a simple explanation for this preference. Moreover, societal narratives and expectations reinforce this notion, glorifying the mother's role in a child's life while subtly sidelining the father's contributions.

Fathers’ Expression of Love

On the flip side, fathers traditionally express their love in less overt, more pragmatic ways. They are often the unsung heroes whose affections are displayed through actions, sacrifices, and the silent bearing of responsibilities. From working long hours to ensure financial stability to making significant life decisions with their children's best interests at heart, fathers contribute to their children's lives in profound ways. However, these contributions are sometimes overshadowed by the lack of verbal affirmations of love, leading to a perception that mothers are the more loving parents.

Societal Expectations and Their Consequences

The societal construct that men must be the providers has long-term effects on their relationship with their children. Men are conditioned to believe their primary role is to ensure their family's prosperity, often at the cost of personal sacrifices and health. This expectation leads them to prioritize work and financial stability, inadvertently creating a distance with their children. Such dynamics play a crucial role in the latter stages of life when parents need care. The bonds nurtured during early childhood often dictate the proximity of children to their parents in old age, regrettably leaving some fathers feeling isolated.

Reassessing Contributions and Acknowledging Both Parents

To attribute the success of a child's upbringing solely to the mother would be an oversight of the multifaceted roles both parents play. While mothers may provide the emotional and physical nurturing, fathers contribute a framework of stability and security that is equally vital. It's imperative to reassess our perception of parental roles and give due credit to fathers for their silent but significant contributions. Recognizing this balance is essential in fostering a more inclusive appreciation of both parents' roles in a child's life, ensuring that neither is undervalued.

Conclusion

The dichotomy in parental love and children’s perceptions thereof cannot be brushed aside as mere preference. It's a reflection of deeper societal constructs, expectations, and the traditional roles parents play. As we move towards a more balanced understanding of family dynamics, it's crucial to acknowledge and appreciate the unique ways both mothers and fathers contribute to their children’s lives. The essence of parenting lies in the collective efforts of both parents, and recognizing this fact is the first step towards nurturing more wholesome and fulfilling familial relationships.

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THE STORY OF OBIM (PART 10)

 Obim's Challenging Period

The class teacher began to fail Obim as a way to punish the young student.

Despite the school headmaster's instructions, Obim was not promoted to the next grade.

For Obim, this was a significant challenge as he was labeled a failing student, despite being one of the smartest in his class.

It has become a practice for some teachers to punish students by failing them in exams, regardless of the students' actual abilities. To excel academically, it seems students must adhere strictly to their teachers' expectations.

According to this logic, a student's intelligence is measured not only by their academic performance but also by their compliance with their teachers.

The animosity between Obim and his teachers persisted.

However, during a practical exercise, Obim's performance was outstanding, showcasing that practical results are undeniable.

After moving to the nearby community of "Egwe," Obim transferred schools, where he completed his primary education.

At Trinity High School in Oguta, the school culture seemed to encourage Obim's previous behavior.

While Obim is naturally quiet, he is valiant in his actions. Often underestimated due to his reserved demeanor, he stands his ground when necessary, refusing to be taken advantage of.

When Auntie Ifeoma punished Obim, she was surprised to hear him utter "odi eshi," a phrase he frequently used during his primary school years.

Sir KC, known for his severe disciplinary methods, took over Obim's punishment, subjecting him to kneel on the school field and imposing strict penalties. Yet, Obim's resolve remained unbroken as he repeated his slogan "odi eshi," leaving the teacher feeling defeated.

Obim was determined to remain stoic in the face of punishment, aiming to show courage rather than succumbing to pain.

No other student showed the same level of endurance to such stringent punishment as Obim did.

Obim excelled in creating inventions such as electric irons, microwave ovens, and toy cars, proving to be the top student in practical assessments.

He was also an exceptional artist, often surpassing his teachers in skill. One instance during a lesson highlighted his talent when students suggested their teacher step aside to let Obim draw instead.

READ MORE...THE STORY OF OBIM (PART 11)

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THE STORY OF OBIM (PART 9)

THE INTERVENTION BY THE SCHOOL HEADMASTER.

The young child was led to the headmaster's office, by which time the other students had left, leaving only Obim's relatives who attended the same school waiting on the premises for him.

"I have received numerous reports about your behavior," stated the headmaster. A smile crept across Obim's face as he met the headmaster's gaze.

"Contrary to the punishments meted out by your teachers, who have informed me of your resilience to the cane, I shall opt for a different approach," continued the headmaster.

Obim regarded him with a brimming confidence.

"My decision is to confine you in my office for the night while I depart for home, leaving you as the sole occupant of the school," declared the Headmaster.

In a bold retort, Obim challenged the headmaster to scrutinize his office for anything of value, insinuating that unless the headmaster removed all his possessions from the office, he might return to find them in disarray.

Further asserting his defiance, Obim threatened, "I will create chaos in your office, damaging your books, chair, and table, and I will still find a way to escape."

The headmaster, taken aback by Obim's fearless manner of speaking, decided on the spot to allow him to leave.

With a triumphant air, Obim exited the office, eagerly recounting the ordeal to his waiting relatives.

Reflecting on the situation, the headmaster realized that a more tactful method was necessary to address Obim's behavior.

Unbeknownst to Obim, the Headmaster had plans in store for him that would soon unfold.

NEXT: THE STORY OF OBIM (PART 10)

THE STORY OF OBIM ...Part 8

On That Fateful Day

Ada, the class prefect, added Obim's name to the list of noise makers, despite him being notably quiet in class that particular day.

UponT her arrival, the class teacher called for the names of the noise makers. Ada presented her list.

Surprisingly, Obim's name topped the list.

Feeling unjustly punished for a misdemeanour he did not commit, Obim was seething with anger.

Despite the teacher's efforts to discipline him through caning, Obim refused to shed tears. Instead, he maintained a smile and confidently said "Odi eshi," a phrase in their local dialect, after each stroke.

Following the teacher's departure, Obim saw an opportunity for retaliation. He confronted Ada with a fierce determination, punishing her for wrongly accusing him.

This incident prompted the school administrators to take a closer look at Obim's behaviour.

Auntie Elizabeth, affectionately known as "Auntie Eliza" by the students, decided to intervene by giving Obim24 more strokes of the cane. Yet, he simply smiled and uttered his signature phrase, "Odi eshi".

During these moments, Obim's resilience earned him admiration from his peers, as they lauded his courage and ability to endure punishment without faltering.

Some students even began to imitate Obim, admiring his capacity to withstand pain.

Obim's reputation reached the ears of the most feared teacher in Adimeri nursery and primary school, Oguta, known for his strict disciplinary methods. It was widely believed that no unruly child could withstand his punishment.

Even after classes had ended, students lingered, curious about Obim's fate. The teacher demanded Obim to kneel and face the wall during their lesson, asserting his authority in front of the class.

After a prolonged wait, with the teacher seemingly indifferent to Obim's punishment as if caning had no effect on him, Obim grew impatient. The teacher, left with no alternative, administered48 strokes of the cane. Yet, instead of crying, Obim smiled and repeated "Odi eshi," much to the teacher's astonishment and the incredulity of all who witnessed it.

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THE STORY OF OBIM (PART 9)