I couldn't have behaved badly if I had not been frustrated at the last meeting held in my school, not just that alone but in a case I was not guilty of. I was wrongly accused and embarrassed for other staff's negligence of duty. It was just totally unfair.
As the promotion examination results approached, our school's staff and management convened to discuss student placements. In today's digital age, it's astonishing that some individuals still prefer manual methods over technological advancements. The Ministry of Education in Lagos state, Nigeria introduced EDUPACK software to streamline result computation, eradicate manual errors, input student databases, staff databases, and other tasks. However, the principal unexpectedly requested manual paperwork for the meeting, despite the software's capabilities.
I personally had gone to meet the principal on the capabilities of edupack software on several occasions before the end of the term meeting, as there wouldn't be any need for paperwork again since we have all it takes technologically. She objected and insisted on the paperwork 🤔 I am somebody who has never failed to perform my duty as expected since I started this job and everyone around me can attest to that fact. I am diligent!
Myself at work
Regrettably, the teachers failed to prepare the required paperwork, and I, as the officer in charge of EDUPACK, was unfairly blamed for their incompetence. The principal's words cut deep, and I was cursed, embarrassed, and ridiculed in front of my colleagues. This was not an isolated incident because it had happened repeatedly in 2021, 2022, 2023, and 2024. The constant blame for others' mistakes took a toll on me and I was furious.
Why did I react that way?
- Frustration with being blamed for others' mistakes
- Desire to protect my reputation and work
- Need for the management to address the issue appropriately
- Wanting to emphasize the importance of embracing technology to reduce paperwork and increase efficiency
I reacted strongly, not just to defend myself but also to highlight the need for accountability and technological adoption in our school. The incident served as a catalyst for change, and I hope it will promote a more efficient and technologically advanced approach to education.
What did I want to gain?
- I wanted a quick change to cushion further reoccurrence.
- Staff training on EDUPACK and other software.
- Clear communication and task assignments.
- Regular progress monitoring and feedback from the school management
- The principal should take full accountability and ownership.
- Embracing technology to enhance education
Repercussions
Everybody still had to blame me for not being calm enough to handle the situation clearly and I became mute like a clock that had no battery.However,after the whole saga, I realized how bad I behaved and felt bad considering people's opinions about my actions🤔 but I learned from my mistakes, and took time to address issues promptly. I hope my experience will inspire positive change in our school and beyond.
Eventually, the principal called me and we settled amicably after realizing she made a huge mistake by apportioning blame on the wrong person. Such is life!
My participation in the #weekend-engagement, edition 218 on the topic; BEHAVED BADLY.
Thank you for reading and have a lovely weekend. Feel free to correct me in the comment section.💕
