By Fatmata Binta Bah

In today’s society, universities play a pivotal role in shaping the future leaders, professionals, and citizens of tomorrow. These academic institutions not only impart knowledge but also instill values and ethics in their students. Among these, the need for students to be law-abiding stands out as a fundamental principle. Upholding laws and regulations within the university context is essential for fostering a safe and conducive learning environment, promoting academic integrity, and preparing students for their roles in the cooperate world. This essay explores the critical importance of law-abiding behavior among university students, highlighting its impact on personal development, academic success, and societal well-being.

The need for students to be law abiding goes beyond mere compliance, it is however of great impact for personal development, academic success, the overall wellbeing of the university administration and the society at large.

The need for students to be law abiding is crucial for several reasons.

Being a law abiding student requires promotion of academic success. Student who adhere to the rules, regulations and principles are highly likely to engage in disruptive behavior.

As a student being law abiding teaches students the significant of respect for others and for the laid principles, it however instills a sense of responsibility and accountability for all.

Another aspect is building good friendships helps students to understand the roles within the larger society. It encourages and prepares students to be responsible and law-abiding citizens in the future.

Avoiding legal consequences for law abiding student that arise from criminal behaviors which helps law abiding students to maintain a clean record that is important for future opportunities or college admission and employment.

It also guides a law abiding student by helping them develop a clear sense to distinguish between right or wrong and making ethical decisions in their daily lives.

It also fosters the creating a safe environment that ensures the safety of students, lecturers and staff of the university administration. This reduces the numerous violence, bullying and other harmful irresponsible behaviors.

The university administration however can implement several principles to ensure that students adhere to the laws and regulations and creating a safe and respectful academic environment. By implementing these principles, university administration strives to create an environment where students can thrive academically and personally while adhering to the law. These principles include:

Orientation programs: Conducting orientation programs which should be mandatory sessions for both new and old students to educate them about the university’s rules, regulations and the significant of being law abiding.

This helps students understand expectations from the outset.

Peer educational programs: This initiative is where in students educate and support each other in understanding and following the rules. Peer influence can be a powerful tool in fostering a law abiding atmosphere.

Collaboration with law enforcement agency: Collaborating with local law enforcement agencies to ensure a coordinating approach to campus safety and legal compliance.

This partnership helps manage serious incidents and provides students with additional resources.

Regular Review and Feedback: Reviewing and updating policies and procedures based on feedback from the university community to address emerging issues and improve effectiveness.

Disciplinary Procedure: Establishing fair and transparent disciplinary procedures to address violations of conduct policies. Clear procedures and consistent enforcement that detect misconduct and ensure accountability.

Strengthen of campus security: Implementing robust security measures, including campus police, surveillance systems and emergency response protocols to ensure safety and deter criminal activities.

Support Services: Providing support services such as counseling, legal advice and conflict resolution to help students navigate challenges and make informed decisions. These services can prevent legal issues from escalating.

It is essential for the personal growth, academic success and the wellbeing of the society.

Copyright –Published in print in Expo Times Newspaper on Friday, June 14th , 2024 (ExpoTimes News – Expo Media Group (expomediasl.com)