AFRICAN SOCIAL AND EDUCATIONAL JOURNAL

This study assesses the predictors of sexual harassment and senior secondary school students’ academic achievement in Biology in Rivers State, Nigeria. The study adopted the correlational research design. A sample of 1024 respondents comprising 257 Biology teachers, 384 Biology students and 384 parents/guardians of the students were selected from 64 public senior secondary schools across six (6) randomly selected Local Government Areas in Rivers State. A 20-item self-structured instrument titled “Sexual Harassment Predictor Scale” (SHPS) and 50-item “Biology Achievement Test” (BAT) with reliability coefficients of 0.873 and 0.885 respectively necessitated the use of the SHPS and BAT instruments for collecting data analyzed using regression analysis. The study revealed (r = 0.042; P = 0.22) and (r = 0.088; P = 0.010) which indicated a very weak positive correlation between domestic violence and act of absenteeism respectively to students’ achievement in Biology in Rivers State. The study recommended among others that teachers and parents should engage students in worthwhile programmes and activities that will help reduce the stress and emotional insecurity which are tantamount to students’ poor academic achievement in a secondary school subject like Biology.

This study explores the role of Information and Communication Technology (ICT) in enhancing administrative efficiency in secondary schools. In an era of increasing educational demands and resource constraints, school administrators face growing pressure to streamline operations and improve management outcomes. The research investigates the types of ICT tools used in school administration, the impact of their application on administrative effectiveness, and the challenges hindering their adoption. Using an exploratory research design and a qualitative approach based on relevant literature review, the study identifies tools such as school management systems, financial software, digital communication platforms, and biometric systems as central to improving data management, communication, and decision-making processes. However, issues such as poor infrastructure, limited digital literacy, inadequate funding, and weak policy enforcement were identified as major barriers to ICT integration. The study shows that while ICT holds substantial potential for transforming school administration, its successful implementation requires targeted investment, staff training, and robust policy support. The study recommends a strategic approach to ICT adoption that includes infrastructural upgrades, continuous professional development, and stakeholder sensitization to maximize administrative efficiency in secondary schools.