WAEC Report Writing: Cases of Bullying in the Hostel

Question: As a member of the school disciplinary committee, write a report to the principal on cases of bullying in the hostel.

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REPORT ON CASES OF BULLYING IN THE HOSTEL

By Chinedu Okafor, Member, Disciplinary Committee

Introduction

This report is written at the request of the school disciplinary committee on cases of bullying in the hostels of Great Heights College, Owerri. It covers incidents observed and reported between 1st September and 30th September 2023.

Nature of Bullying Observed

The following forms of bullying were recorded during the period under review:

1. Physical Bullying: Some senior students were found flogging juniors with belts and forcing them to carry heavy loads.
2. Verbal Bullying: Insults, name-calling, and threats were common, especially during night hours.
3. Extortion: A few seniors demanded money, food items, and provisions from younger students.
4. Forced Labour: Juniors were compelled to wash clothes, fetch water, and run errands for seniors against their will.

Extent of the Problem

The committee documented 18 separate cases of bullying involving 25 junior students. The most affected were JSS1 and JSS2 students who were intimidated by SS2 and SS3 students. Reports show that bullying occurs mostly in the evenings after prep time, when hostel wardens are less vigilant.

Effects of Bullying

1. Fear and Trauma: Several juniors complained of constant fear, leading to lack of concentration in class.
2. Decline in Academic Performance: Victimized students often miss evening prep and morning classes.
3. Low Morale: Some students threatened to withdraw from boarding due to the persistent harassment.
4. Discipline Issues: Bullying promotes indiscipline and tarnishes the school’s reputation.

Measures Taken So Far

• Offenders were identified and issued queries.
• Some repeat offenders were suspended from hostel activities.
• Hostel wardens were instructed to increase surveillance, especially at night.
• Victims were counseled by the school guidance counselor.

Recommendations

1. Stricter Punishments: Offenders should face suspension or expulsion to deter others.
2. Increased Supervision: Hostel wardens should conduct routine checks and patrols at night.
3. Orientation Programs: New students should be educated about their rights and how to report bullying.
4. Anonymous Reporting System: Suggestion boxes should be provided for victims to report without fear.
5. Parental Involvement: Parents of offenders should be invited for joint counseling sessions.

Conclusion

Bullying in the hostel poses a serious threat to the safety and academic growth of students. With stricter disciplinary actions, improved supervision, and parental involvement, this menace can be greatly reduced if not completely eradicated.

Respectfully submitted,
Chinedu Okafor
Member, Disciplinary Committee

 

 

Examiners’ Expectations

WAEC examiners expect:

• A formal heading and clear sections (Introduction, Findings, Effects, Recommendations, Conclusion).
• Proper use of statistics, examples, and observations.
• Clear identification of problem and solutions.
• Formal, objective tone without emotional outbursts.
• At least 450 words.

Tips for Students

1. Always highlight types of bullying with examples to show depth.
2. Organize your report into logical sections (Intro → Problem → Effects → Solutions → Conclusion).
3. Keep the language formal and factual.
4. End with a conclusion that shows hope for improvement.
5. Remember to sign off with your name and role.