STUDENTS

This study examined the influence of social demand, peer pressure, and economic stability on the behavioural patterns of secondary school students in Oredo Local Government Area. The study adopted a descriptive survey design, and a sample of two hundred students was selected through a random sampling technique. A structured questionnaire was used for data collection, and the reliability of the instrument was confirmed using Cronbach’s Alpha, which indicated a high level of internal consistency. Data were analysed using descriptive statistics, Pearson Product Moment Correlation Coefficient, multiple regression analysis, and independent samples t test. The findings showed that social demand significantly influences students’ behavioural patterns, indicating that expectations from parents, teachers, and the community shape their behavioural responses. Peer pressure was also found to significantly affect students’ behaviour, suggesting that adolescents conform strongly to the influence of
their peers. The study further revealed that economic stability relates positively to behavioural patterns, showing that students from more financially stable households exhibit more positive behavioural responses. The combined analysis indicated that social demand, peer pressure, and economic stability jointly predict students’ behavioural patterns, accounting for 81.7 percent of the variance. The study also found no sex based differences in the influence of the three factors on behaviour. It was concluded that behavioural patterns among secondary school students are shaped by social, peer, and economic contexts, and that interventions should address these factors collectively. Recommendations were made for schools to manage social expectations, strengthen peer mentoring, support economically disadvantaged students, and enhance counselling services to promote positive behavioural outcomes.

This study examines the role of oral literature in preserving cultural heritage among students of Oredo Girls College, Benin City, Edo State. The research was guided by three questions focusing on the genres of oral literature used in the school, the roles these forms play in cultural preservation, and the challenges affecting their sustainability. A descriptive survey research design was adopted, with a population of 750 students from which 100 respondents were selected using simple random sampling. A structured questionnaire served as the primary instrument for data collection, and the data were analysed using descriptive statistics such as frequency, percentage, mean, and standard deviation. Findings revealed that genres such as storytelling, folktales, proverbs, traditional songs, myths, and legends are actively used within the school environment to promote cultural continuity. The study further showed that oral literature strengthens students’ connection to their cultural roots, enhances understanding of societal values, shapes cultural identity, reinforces moral development, and helps preserve indigenous languages. The study concludes that oral literature remains an essential tool for transmitting cultural heritage, but its effectiveness depends on deliberate educational and community efforts. It recommends curriculum integration, teacher training, cultural clubs, and school-community partnerships to sustain and promote
oral traditions among students.

Title: Obesity and Overweight among Students and Faculty in the University of Benin, BeninCity, Edo State, Nigeria. In response to the escalating global prevalence of obesity and overweight, this cross-sectionalstudy investigates the extent and determinants of these health concerns among the University ofBenin community. Our study encompassed 600 participants, including students and facultymembers. By employing structured questionnaires and anthropometric measurements, weevaluated the distribution of Body Mass Index (BMI) and examined various aspects of lifestyle, including dietary habits, physical activity, health perceptions, and knowledge sources. Thefindings indicate a substantial prevalence of obesity and overweight, totaling 63%. Lifestylefactors, such as physical inactivity and unhealthy dietary practices, play a significant role in theobserved prevalence. Additionally, our study reveals a concerning lack of awareness amongparticipants regarding the health implications associated with obesity. As a response to thesefindings, we propose a series of evidence-based recommendations. These encompass theimplementation of health promotion programs, an enhancement in access to healthy food options, the establishment of physical activity initiatives, the provision of mental health and stressmanagement support, and academic assistance. This multifaceted approach seeks to create ahealthier campus environment and, in turn, enhance the overall well-being of students andfaculty within the University of Benin. Keywords: Obesity, overweight, prevalence, students, faculty, cross-sectional study.