What Is Missing in Our Schools?

Education goes beyond academic excellence; it is about shaping disciplined, responsible, and morally upright individuals who can thrive in society. While schools continue to provide quality teaching, there is still much to be done in nurturing students who embody discipline, morality, social awareness, and emotional intelligence.
At Higher Life Academy (HLA), we believe that cultivating the right practices among Junior High School (JHS) students is key to bridging this gap. Here are some best practices every student should adopt to become well-rounded and successful:

Building Discipline and Character
- Regular attendance and punctuality – Being present and on time shows respect for both school and teachers.
- Taking responsibility for actions – Owning up to mistakes and learning from them builds maturity.
- Respecting others – Treating classmates, teachers, and school staff with kindness fosters a healthy learning environment.
- Following school rules – Adhering to rules, such as dress codes and attendance policies, promotes order and unity.
Developing Social and Emotional Intelligence
- Participation in extracurricular activities – Sports, clubs, and community projects build teamwork and responsibility.
- Empathy and emotional awareness – Understanding one’s own feelings and respecting those of others helps strengthen relationships.
- Effective communication – Listening actively and expressing oneself clearly enhances cooperation in and outside the classroom.

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Academic Excellence Through Smart Habits
- Time management – Prioritizing tasks and avoiding distractions ensures productivity.
- Good study habits – Taking notes, revising regularly, and asking questions when needed form the backbone of academic success.
But excelling in school is not only about personal conduct; it also requires mastering effective strategies for major examinations like the Basic Education Certificate Examination (BECE) and the West African Senior School Certificate Examination (WASSCE).

Best Practices to Excel in BECE and WASSCE
- Create a study schedule – Structure study time to avoid last-minute cramming.
- Practice past questions – Familiarize yourself with exam formats and common patterns.
- Take good notes – Well-organized notes make revision easier.
- Seek help when needed – Teachers and peers are valuable resources when topics get challenging.
- Use memory aids – Acronyms, rhymes, and mnemonics help retain key concepts.
- Practice time management – Train yourself to answer questions within set limits.
- Stay healthy – Adequate rest, balanced meals, and regular exercise keep the mind sharp.
Conclusion
What is missing in our schools is not the lack of knowledge, but often the absence of balance between discipline, moral values, and effective learning strategies. By instilling these best practices, we can raise a generation of students who are not only academically excellent but also socially responsible, emotionally intelligent, and morally upright.
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