Combs encourages kids to stay in school

Rap mogul Sean "Diddy" Combs shocked students at a Philadelphia, Pennsylvania high school on Monday when he appeared onstage to encourage them to stay in school.

The 36-year-old surprised the 750 students, who erupted in cheers when they realised who their guest speaker was.

He told the children: "This is a really important time for you all right now. This is the time that is going to dictate your future. It's important to know what it takes to achieve your dream."

The rap star also asked some of the students to join him onstage and recite some of the goals they hope to achieve in their lives.

He added: "Take responsibility for your future. No excuses!"

School officials were so impressed by Combs' inspiring talk, they have decided to use his words in an anti-truancy campaign.

School principal Christopher Johnson says: "We wanted someone whom they would sit down and listen to, someone who comes from the same type of background.

"To have a superstar come in is extremely powerful."