Arguments in Favor (Yes, Schools Should)
Introducing electronic voting (e-voting) in schools for prefect elections can foster transparency, speed, and fairness. With e-voting systems, votes can be cast quickly and counted accurately without bias or human error. It eliminates the manual ballot-counting process which is often slow and prone to rigging or manipulation.
E-voting also equips students with modern democratic experiences and technological skills that are relevant in today’s digital world. It creates an opportunity for students to understand civic engagement through technology, thereby preparing them for future national elections that may adopt similar systems.
Moreover, e-voting promotes student interest and participation in leadership processes, especially in ICT-compliant schools. Prefect elections can become more engaging and efficient, reducing classroom disruptions during electoral activities.
Arguments Against (No, It’s Not Necessary)
While e-voting is innovative, it may be unnecessary and impractical for many Nigerian schools, especially in rural or low-resource areas. Many schools lack basic infrastructure such as stable electricity, internet connectivity, or enough computers to facilitate a smooth e-voting process.
Furthermore, introducing e-voting might create inequality, where only students in well-funded private schools enjoy digital election privileges, while public or rural schools rely on outdated manual systems. This disparity may widen the digital divide between schools.
Also, there are concerns about security and system integrity. Without proper cybersecurity measures, students could tamper with votes or influence outcomes. Manual voting, though slower, is simple, cost-effective, and easier to manage in many school environments.
Conclusion
E-voting in schools can modernize student leadership elections and promote technological literacy. However, its implementation must consider the digital readiness of each school. While it's a positive idea for ICT-equipped schools, manual voting may remain more practical for others. The key is to ensure fairness, participation, and student understanding of democracy, regardless of the method used.
