The Principal of Maarif College in Yaoundé, Huseyin Talih, has publicly declared the institution’s firm stance against all forms of violence within educational settings. He made this declaration during a seminar held in the school’s conference room early this month.
In a strong show of commitment to fostering a safe and nurturing educational environment, College Maarif of Yaoundé Nkolfoulou hosted a powerful sensitization seminar under the theme, “Educate to Elevate: Raising Awareness, Combat Violence in School Milieu.” The event brought together teachers, parents, school administrators, and education stakeholders to confront the growing concern of violence in and around schools. The seminar, held in the school’s conference room, was spearheaded by Hüseyin Talih, Principal of College Maarif and a practicing psychologist.
In his keynote address, Talih issued a firm condemnation of all forms of violence in educational institutions. “Now, we must have zero tolerance for violence in our schools. Violence is destroying our children’s dreams. It is harming their future, their motivation, their talent, and their hopes,” Talih declared. “We must take a firm stand: No violence in schools. We must stop it.” Guest speaker Professor Emilie Clarisse Tchokote, a renowned clinical psychologist and president of the Mental Health Research and Intervention Network, MEHRIN, further enriched the dialogue by exploring the root causes and deeper consequences of school violence.
She highlighted that violence is not confined to the school premises, but often extends to and from the surrounding community. “The school environment is more than just the physical campus—it’s the broader educational community,” she explained. “Violence can begin within school walls and stretch far beyond. We must address the full spectrum, including silent violence such as bullying and emotional harassment.” Using the metaphor of a tree, Professor Tchokote described violence as having roots (causes), a trunk (types of violence), and branches (visible consequences like school dropouts and poor academic performance).
She stressed that eradicating violence requires a holistic approach involving both the school and family systems. As part of best practices, she recommended awareness campaigns, positive school climates, and extracurricular activities for students, along with dialogue-focused meetings and sensitization programs for parents. Regional Delegate for Secondary Education in Mefou and Afamba, Mr. Abessolo Elanga, who presided over the seminar, praised the initiative.
He highlighted the urgency of tackling violence in schools and pledged ongoing support for similar programs. “School violence is a scourge we must come together to eliminate. The key takeaway from today is our collective commitment to ending corporal punishment and creating safer learning spaces,” he said. Participants at the seminar commended the school’s leadership for initiating this timely and impactful event.
Principal Talih concluded by assuring that this seminar marked only the beginning of a long-term effort to promote peace and respect within the educational space. “As educators, we are shaping future leaders. We must use the power of education wisely. The pen is mightier than the sword.” The seminar at College Maarif Yaoundé Nkolfoulou concluded with strong resolutions aimed at addressing school violence through collaboration between educators, parents, and mental health professionals.
