The police have issued safety measures to be adhered to by parents and school administrators to guarantee learners’ safety as learning institutions reopen for the first term
Police reminded all school administrators, and educators of their legal responsibility to protect school children from dangers and any other risks to safety while in and on their way to school.
Schools officially opened today 6th of February while Senior One students, whose Primary Leaving Examination results were released two weeks ago are expected to report to school on February 20, according to the Ministry of Education school calendar.
Addressing the media at the police headquarters in Naguru police spokesperson Fred Enanga said whenever schools reopen, they anticipate an increase in activities and, therefore, all schools are mandated to carry out routine inspections of dormitories and classrooms throughout the term to promote vigilance and situational awareness.
Enanga also cautions that all children should be examined upon their return to school for any signs of child abuse during holidays and this usually helps police, especially with the girl child.
While taking children to school, parents are urged to help them memorize the routes, and show them landmarks and safe areas between schools and home so that they have somewhere to run in case of emergency.
School proprietors and administration have also been asked to give special recognition to financially unstable children. Enanga notes that blocking children pending clearance at the gate has a psychological impact on the students.
It is a responsible practice for Parents not to use shortcuts when escorting their children to school since it puts children in very vulnerable situations.