School Security Management Strategies and Attainment of Sustainable Development Goal (4) in Tertiary Institutions in South-South Zone of Nigeria

Abstract

Abstract

This study investigated the relationship between school security management strategies and the attainment of Sustainable Development Goal 4 (SDG 4) in tertiary institutions within the South-South zone of Nigeria. Employing a correlational research design, the study aimed to assess how existing school security practices influence the realization of inclusive and equitable quality education without manipulating any variables. A total of 661 participants were selected through stratified and clustered sampling techniques, comprising 150 institutional administrators, 70 security personnel, 100 faculty staff, and 341 students across purposively selected tertiary institutions. Six research questions were raised and one hypothesis was formulated to guide the study. Data were collected using two validated instruments—the School Security Management Questionnaire (SSMQ) and the SDG 4 Attainment Perception Scale (SDG4-APS)—each demonstrating high reliability with Cronbach’s Alpha coefficients of 0.89 and 0.90 respectively. Instruments were structured into three sections based on the study objectives and administered electronically via Monkey Surveys, yielding a 100% response rate. Responses were measured using a four-point Likert scale, with a criterion mean of 2.50 adopted for interpretation. The findings revealed a significant correlation between the effectiveness of school security management strategies and the achievement of SDG 4 in the institutions studied. The study concludes that closing gaps in implementation, leadership commitment, and infrastructure is essential for improving safety and educational outcomes. It recommends the adoption of integrated and inclusive security measures to foster a safer, more supportive academic environment that aligns with global educational goals.