**Bullying in the Halls of Learning: 60 Days in Jail for Three High Schoolers** In a shocking incident that highlights the darker side of Nigerian secondary schools, three students have been sentenced to 60 days in jail for physically assaulting a younger pupil over a romantic relationship. The incident occurred at Mavhudzi High School in Nyazura, Zimbabwe, but the implications are far-reaching, and a similar scenario could play out in our own schools. According to reports, the three Upper Sixth learners, identified as Tatenda Severa, Trevor Mushore, and Lawrence Chamunorwa, attacked a 19-year-old Form Five pupil in a school dormitory. The assault was reportedly unprovoked and left the victim with facial and head bruises, headaches, and chest pains. The court heard that the trio had gone to the complainant's dormitory, where they found him lying on his bed with other learners present. A school prefect entered the dormitory and warned the lower sixth learners to desist from disrespecting the upper sixth boys by having romantic relationships with upper sixth girls. The warning sparked the violent reaction. The court proceedings revealed that Severa grabbed the complainant's leg and pulled him to the ground, while Mushore slapped him several times on the face. Chamunorwa joined in, kicking the complainant several times on the head and back. The victim suffered a 20-minute loss of consciousness and was left with serious injuries. In sentencing the three students, Magistrate Tendai Mahwe ordered each of them to pay a fine of $300, failure to which they would serve 60 days in prison. An additional three-month prison term was also imposed, wholly suspended for five years, meaning they would not serve the sentence unless they were convicted of another violent offence within the five-year suspension period. The court noted that the students had no previous records and had shown remorse during proceedings. The sentence was intended to send a clear message that bullying and physical aggression carry serious legal consequences. As we reflect on this incident, it serves as a reminder that our schools must be safe spaces for all learners. The Nigerian government, parents, and school authorities must take proactive measures to prevent bullying and ensure that our schools are conducive to learning. By doing so, we can create an environment where all students feel valued, respected, and safe.