STUDENTS

Mental health challenges among secondary school students have become a growing concern globally with Nigeria experiencing a significant rise in mental health issues among adolescents. This study explores the mental health challenges faced by secondary school students in Nigeria, identifying key factors contributing to these issues and examining the coping mechanisms employed by students. The research also investigates the role of schools, families, and communities in addressing mental health challenges and promoting well-being among adolescents. The study employed a mixed-methods approach combining quantitative and qualitative data collection methods. A survey was administered to 400 secondary school students in Ekosodin, followed by in-depth interviews with 30 students, teachers, and school counselors. The findings reveal that academic pressure, family problems, social relationships and stigma surrounding mental health are major contributors to mental health challenges among secondary school students. Anxiety, depression, and stress were the most commonly reported mental health issues, with female students reporting higher rates of anxiety and depression compared to male students. The study highlights the importance of early identification and intervention as well as the need for comprehensive mental health support systems in schools. The research also emphasizes the role of families and communities in promoting mental health awareness and reducing stigma. The findings suggest that schools should prioritize mental health education, provide accessible counseling services and train teachers to identify and support students struggling with mental health issues. This study contributes to the growing body of literature on adolescent mental health in Nigeria, providing insights into the complex interplay of factors influencing mental health outcomes. The research underscores the need for a multi-level approach to addressing mental health challenges involving individual, family, school, and community-level interventions. By promoting mental health awareness, reducing stigma and increasing access to support services, Nigeria can take steps towards improving the mental well- being of its adolescent population. The study's findings have implications for policymakers, educators, parents, and mental health professionals, highlighting the need for collaborative efforts to address mental health challenges among secondary school students. Recommendations include integrating mental health education into school curricula, increasing funding for school counseling services, and promoting community-based mental health initiatives.

Myopia is an increasingly common visual condition that affects millions of young adults worldwide. Among university students, prolonged near work, digital screen use, and limited outdoor exposure contribute to its rising prevalence. Beyond blurred vision, myopia can significantly affect emotional wellbeing, academic performance, and daily functioning. To assess the impact of myopia on the quality of life among students of the University of Benin. A descriptive cross-sectional study was conducted among 153 students diagnosed with myopia. Data were collected using a structured questionnaire adapted from the National Eye Institute Refractive Error Quality of Life Instrument (NEI RQL-42). Information on socio-demographics, awareness of myopia, and quality-of-life indicators was obtained. Descriptive statistics and inferential tests were used to analyze relationships between variables. All respondents were confirmed myopes, categorized as mild (53.6%), moderate (35.3%), and high (11.1%). Awareness of myopia correction was high (92.8%), but only 45.8% had undergone an eye examination in the past year. The overall mean quality-of-life score indicated a moderate impact, with the lowest scores in dependence on correction and emotional wellbeing domains. A significant negative correlation was found between severity of myopia and quality-of-life scores (r = -0.398, p = 0.002), while gender and level of study showed no significant associations (p > 0.05). Myopia moderately affects the quality of life of university students, particularly as severity increases. Strengthening vision screening programs, integrating visual ergonomics into academic settings, and providing psychosocial support for myopic students are essential steps toward improving overall wellbeing.

This study investigated students’ conceptual understanding and misconceptions in genetics among Senior Secondary School II Biology students in public secondary schools in Egor Local Government Area, Benin City, Edo State. Three research questions guided the study. A descriptive survey research design was adopted for the study. The population comprised all Senior Secondary School II Biology students in public secondary schools within the study area, while a total of 400 students were selected using a multistage sampling technique. Data were collected using a researcher developed instrument titled Genetics Conceptual Understanding and Misconception Diagnostic Test. The instrument consisted of two sections. Section A collected demographic information, while Section B contained a 40 item two tier multiple choice test covering Mendelian inheritance, chromosomal concepts, molecular genetics, and genetics applications. Each correct response in Tier 1 and Tier 2 was awarded one mark, giving a total obtainable score of 80. The reliability of the instrument was established using the Cronbach Alpha method, which indicated that the instrument was reliable. Data collected were analysed using descriptive statistics such as frequency counts, percentages, mean, and standard deviation to answer the research questions, while inferential statistics using the independent samples t-test were employed to test the gender difference with the aid of the Statistical Package for the Social Sciences. Based on the findings, it was recommended, among others that biology teachers should adopt interactive and student centred teaching methods that promote conceptual understanding rather than rote memorisation. Strategies such as concept mapping, group discussions, and problem based learning should be encouraged

Here is a standard, comprehensive abstract tailored to your research topic. Since this is a template for an empirical study, placeholders like [X] are used for data you will need to fill in based on your actual research findings.AbstractThis study investigated the relationship between students' reading culture and their reading comprehension performance in Junior Secondary Schools (JSS) within the Egor Local Government Area of Edo State. The study adopted a descriptive survey research design. A sample of [Insert Number, e.g., 200] JSS students was selected from [Insert Number, e.g., 5] public and private secondary schools in the area using a simple random sampling technique. Two instruments were used for data collection: a structured questionnaire titled "Students' Reading Culture Questionnaire (SRCQ)" and a "Reading Comprehension Performance Test (RCPT)." The instruments were validated by experts, and their reliability coefficients were established at [Insert Reliability, e.g., 0.78] and [Insert Reliability, e.g., 0.81] respectively. Data collected were analyzed using mean and standard deviation to answer the research questions, while Pearson Product-Moment Correlation (PPMC) [or t-test/ANOVA, depending on your analysis] was used to test the hypotheses at a 0.05 level of significance.The findings revealed that the reading culture among junior secondary school students in Egor Local Government Area is [low / moderate / high]. Furthermore, a significant positive relationship was found between students' reading culture and their academic performance in reading comprehension ($r = \text{[Insert r-value, e.g., 0.64]}, p < 0.05$). Factors such as excessive use of social media, lack of functional school libraries, and poor parental support were identified as major hindrances to developing a robust reading culture. Based on these findings, it was recommended among others that school authorities in Egor Local Government Area should establish well-equipped libraries and integrate mandatory reading hours into the school curriculum to foster a sustainable reading culture and ultimately enhance comprehension performance.

This study investigates the perceived problems in teaching environmental education among environmental students at the University of Benin, Nigeria. The research focused on four research questions: teaching methodologies, resource availability, teacher expertise, and student readiness, literature related to the study was carefully reviewed. The population of this study, comprised of seven Hundred and Three (703) Environmental Education students of the university of Benin, Benin City Edo state. Two hundred and fifty (250) respondents were the study's target sample. The instrument was validated by the researcher's project supervisor and two other experts in Health safety and Environment Education and the reliability of the instrument was done using Cronbach's alpha. A quantitative survey design was used and data collection was done through structured questionnaire. A descriptive statistics was used to analyze the data. Findings indicate that a holistic approach addressing these challenges is necessary, including providing adequate resources, professional development for educators, and strategies to enhance student motivation. The study concludes that these integrated improvements are vital for the successful implementation of environmental education programs in African educational contexts, particularly given the continent's vulnerability to environmental challenges.

Background: Antimicrobial resistance (AMR) is a critical global public health threat, significantly driven by the irrational use of antibiotics. University students represent a key demographic whose medication-related behaviours influence community resistance patterns. This study assessed the knowledge, attitudes, and practices (KAP) regarding antibiotic use and resistance among undergraduate students of the University of Benin, Edo State. Methods: A descriptive cross-sectional study design was employed. A total of 430 students were selected using a multi-stage probability sampling technique across eight faculties. Data were collected using a structured, pre-tested, interviewer-administered questionnaire. Analysis was performed using IBM SPSS version 27.0, utilizing descriptive statistics and Chi-square tests to determine associations between variables. Statistical significance was set at p < 0.05. Results: The mean age of respondents was 20.3 ± 2.9 years. The study revealed a high prevalence of antibiotic use, with 58.8% of students having used an antibiotic in the preceding six months. Overall, 81.6% of respondents demonstrated poor knowledge of antibiotics and AMR. Misconceptions were widespread: 78.1% incorrectly believed antibiotics are effective against viral infections (flu/coughs), and only 10.0% correctly identified the biological mechanism of resistance. Attitudes were predominantly negative (70.2%); notably, 51.0%perceivedsharingleftover antibiotics as a "helpful social gesture." Regarding practices, 50.7%demonstratedpoorbehaviour. The most common source of antibiotics was Patent and Proprietary Medicine Vendors xiv (29.3%), while only 18.8% obtained drugs via a doctor’s prescription. Faculty of study (p=0.005)and Level of study (p=0.005) were significantly associated with knowledge levels, with medical students and seniors performing better. Attitude was a significant predictor of practice(p<0.001). Conclusion: There is a concerning deficit in antibiotic literacy and a high prevalence of inappropriate practices among students at the University of Benin. The reliance on unregulated vendors and the social normalization of medication sharing underscore the need for urgent interventions. It is recommended that the University administration integrates antimicrobial stewardship modules into the General Studies (GST) curriculum and strengthens the campus health services to reduce reliance on informal medication sources.

This study explores the influence of social media on the sexual behavior of university students, focusing on the unique context of the University of Benin. The proliferation of social media platforms has raised concerns about its potential impact on students' sexual behavior. Existing literature suggests that social media can expose individuals to sexual content, facilitate peer influence, and influence risky sexual behaviors. However, it also serves as a platform for sexual health education and discourse. The research employed a survey design, with data collected from 300 randomly selected undergraduate students across multiple faculties. The study found that social media does indeed exert a significant influence on students' sexual behavior, shaping their attitudes and perceptions of romantic relationships. It was observed that social media content can create pressure for conformity to certain behaviors and norms. Additionally, the study revealed that social media plays a complex role in shaping students' perceptions of risky sexual behaviors. While exposure to content can cultivate an appreciation for excitement and risk, students approach these portrayals with a degree of critical discernment. In terms of sexual health education, the research found that students do not primarily rely on social media for accurate information. However, they recognize its role in destigmatizing discussions about sexual health topics. In conclusion, this study highlights the multifaceted impact of social media on the sexual behavior, perceptions, and health education of university students. It underscores the need for targeted sexual health education campaigns, media literacy programs, safe online spaces for discussions, and stricter content regulation on social media platforms. Further research is recommended to explore the nuances of this relationship in greater dept.

This study investigated the influence of social anxiety and self-esteem on academic adjustment in Edo State Polytechnic Usen. To guide the study, three (03) research questions were raised and four hypotheses. A descriptive survey research design was adopted, the population of this study consisted of (1132) one thousand, one hundred and thirty-two students from five departments, (114) one hundred, fourteen students formed the sample size. The instruments used for the study was a questionnaire titled: social anxiety and self-esteem on academic adjustment scale questionnaire (SASEAASQ). The instrument was validated by the researcher supervisor and two experts in the department of Educational Evaluation and Counseling Psychology. Cronbach Alpha Statistics was used to establish the reliability which gave the values of .637, .514 and .710 respectively. Data were collected and analyzed using descriptive statistics of mean and standard deviation which was used to answer the research questions. The findings revealed that students of Edo State polytechnic Usen have a high level of social anxiety, high level of self-esteem and high level of academic adjustment. Based on the findings, it was recommended that holding workshops and seminars for students at the beginning of each academic year to alleviate their feeling of stress and social anxiety and to raise the level of their self-esteem and promoting the participation of students with low self- esteem in social activities, collaborative work and social engagements to help them form a positive self-image these can better their academic adjustment, also applying social anxiety tests to students at different level, encourage students to trust themselves.

This study was carried out to scrutinize sex and Attitude of secondary school students in learning chemistry in Egor Local Government Area of Edo State. In achieving this aim, four research questions were raised to serve as a guide for this study. The research design used in this study is descriptive survey design utilizing questionnaire as
method of data collection. A total of 100 respondents were selected to represent the entire population of the study. The data collated were presented on a frequency distribution table and analyzed using simple percentage. This study will be of great importance to the society, Examination Bodies, especially Chemistry teachers because of its scientific nature, economic and technological application and values it has especially on the students on how they reason and how their creative skills can be improved through an effective and efficient method of learning. Finally, the experience gained from this study will provide future researchers with empirical evidence of the mode that enables students to learn better and hence form the basis for further research.

Campus safety has become an increasing concern in modern educational institutions, as students are often exposed to various forms of emergencies ranging from fire outbreaks, theft, medical crises, to security threats. Traditional methods of handling emergencies, such as manual phone calls, word-of-mouth alerts, or notice board announcements, have proven to be ineffective, slow, and unreliable in reaching students and campus authorities on time. This project emphasizes the need for a more automated and responsive method of disseminating safety alerts and emergency notifications to students and relevant authorities. To achieve this, the project proposes an Online Emergency and Safety Alert System for Students on Campus, designed and implemented using WordPress as the core development platform. The system enables students to report emergencies, receive real-time alerts, and access safety information through an interactive web interface. It also provides administrators with tools to manage user accounts, verify reports, and broadcast urgent notifications to all registered users. The system was developed following the Agile software development methodology, which allowed for iterative design, feedback integration, and continuous improvement throughout the project cycle. Figma served as the primary design tool for creating an interactive and user-friendly interface prototype of the system. The implementation focuses on the front-end design and user interaction, integrating WordPress plugins such as Ultimate Member for user management and form-based input for emergency reporting. Overall, the system aims to improve campus security responsiveness, enhance communication between students and authorities, and create a safer learning environment within the University of Benin campus