Nkawie (Ash), Feb. 5, GNA - Mr Baffour Asare-Bediako, an Assistant Director of Education at Atwima-Nwabiagya district education directorate, has advised students to combine academic knowledge with self-discipline and good moral virtues.

Mr Asare-Bediako, who is in-charge of Human Resource Management and Development, said reported cases of indiscipline in some educational institutions did not only dent the image and credibility of the affected schools but also disrupt their academic calendar, thereby becoming great disservice to the students themselves.

He was speaking at a quiz competition organised by the education directorate for second cycle schools in the Atwima-Nwabiagya district at Nkawie on Friday as part of activities marking this year's 48th independence anniversary.

Nkawie Secondary/Technical School came first while Osei Tutu Secondary School came second. Toase Secondary School, however, failed to participate in the competition.

Mr Asare-Bediako advised the students to use their leisure period profitably by reading to broaden their knowledge. "As students, you should be curious, initiative, resourceful and studios and also conduct regular researches to acquire more knowledge and experiences outside the normal classroom activities", he said. Reverend Thomas Takyi, an Assistant Director of Education in-charge of second cycle education at the directorate, asked students to refrain from acts that would ruin their future and rather concentrate on their studies.

He advised them to resist peer group pressures that would lure them to engage in narcotic drugs, alcoholism, pre-marital sex and other social vices.

Rev Takyi reminded them of the existence of the HIV/AIDS menace and urged them to protect themselves from contracting the disease, which is fast spreading.