The only certificate a student is given from a billiard or play centre is a receipt of time and money spent there, instead of a certificate of good academic performance in school.

These are the words of Education Ministry officials on the negative effects of not being in school during school hours.

The Ministry said if we want our children to become responsible citizens, we must make sure they remain in school during school hours and are not mucking around town, entering play centres and taking bus rides during this time.

The Ministry requests heads of schools and teachers to implement strict measures to end this wayward behaviour by some students, adding not only are these non-productive activities a waste of money but these would only negatively affect a student's future in school.

The Ministry also said billiard and play centre owners should have a part to play and bar school students from entering their shops during school hours.