The rise in boy and girl relationships or what is commonly called “Campus Dating” among the youth has become rampant in Senior High schools (particularly boarding schools), and this should be a cause for concern for parents, the church and the nation.
Campus dating is a term that was coined for young males and females engaged in an amorous relationship on campus. The advent of social media has even made this act popular on our various campuses. It has become so popular to the extent that those who do not indulge in it are considered miscreants, particularly the new entrants (freshers). In fact, it is practically a sin to live on campus and not have a “beloved.” Those who are able to stand their ground are tagged with various names such as fools, impotent, and good for nothing. (I know this for a fact because I was a victim)
During my school days in Nsein SHS from the year 2016 to 2019, I observed that most of the students were involved in campus dating, which, they popularly called “Atetare” (Translated “hiding” in English).
What caused the proliferation of campus dating at the time (and even now) was the promises both parties received from each other that they would marry after school and happily live out their dreams.
It was always an uphill task talking any sense into the heads of those caught in this unfortunate love web. Nothing worked! It was even worse when some said their parents are aware of their amorous relationship and have even asked the young man to take care of their daughter for them in school (This is true). Can you imagine!
As “campus couples,” they engage in certain acts that God has reserved for married couples, such as: fondling, kissing and even sexual intercourse. They do this throughout their stay on campus. Often these campus dating leads to poor academic performance, emotional frustrations (broken-heart), unnecessary expenses, apathy towards the things of God, and some even end up dropping out of school due to pregnancy.
LIFE AFTER SCHOOL: THE SAD REALITY
A month or two after completion, these campus couples flaunt pictures of their partners on their various social media handles as though to say their bond remains ever strong. Fast forward (two years later), you see wedding pictures of them engaged/married to someone else, not their “campus lovers!”
CONCLUSION
Dear Senior High School student, the Lord created us for a purpose and our education ties into this purpose. Your purpose for being in school is not to look for a life partner but to study and acquire knowledge. So do well to abstain from the seductive web of “Campus Dating.”
The Bible says in 1 Corinthians 6:19: “Keep away from the desires of the flesh. Every sin which a man does is outside of the body; but he who goes after the desires of the flesh does evil to his body.”
Therefore, stay away from unhealthy relationships and, rather, build your relationship with God, and He will lead you to the one He has specially made for you in the appointed. Shalom.
Written by Dennis Quaicoe, Kegyina District, Axim Area, Pentecost University