As schools reopen for the first term this week, the Police has issued safety guidelines to parents, school administrators, and financial institutions, with a strong emphasis on the safe transport of learners using boda-bodas.
Police spokesperson Kituuma Rusoke, while addressing the nation at Police Headquarters in Naguru, warned boda-boda riders carrying multiple children to school to stop, directing them to carry only one child per rider and to ensure that helmets are worn.
He noted that the move aims to protect students, especially younger children and girls, from accidents and other risks during their commutes.
“We are calling on all boda-boda riders transporting children to carry only one child per rider and ensure proper safety gear such as helmets and reflective jackets are worn,” Rusoke said.
Police have advised parents to personally escort children to and from school where possible and avoid sending them alone very early in the morning or late in the evening.
Parents should teach children to stick to main roads, avoid shortcuts and isolated paths, walk in groups, and use designated crossings where available. They should also pay attention to what children carry, as some learners may attempt to bring drugs, alcohol, gadgets, or weapons to school.
Parents are encouraged to inform schools of any relevant medical conditions and maintain updated contacts for teachers, matrons, and administrators. Clear and consistent pick-up and drop-off arrangements for younger learners are also recommended.
School proprietors and administrators were urged to strengthen access control, record all visitors, inspect vehicles entering the premises, and maintain a visible security presence during drop-off and pick-up times.
“Schools should establish clear procedures for collecting learners, including verifying the person picking up a child, to prevent incidents where children are reported missing or kidnapped,” Rusoke said.
Schools should ensure learners’ health status has been verified, regularly inspect the school environment for hazards such as open manholes, unstable buildings, loose electrical wiring, or unsafe latrines, and maintain functional fire extinguishers while training staff and students in fire response.
Regular inspection of learners’ belongings is also recommended to detect illegal substances, distracting gadgets, or dangerous items that could threaten safety.
Police have also urged banks and financial institutions to promote digital payment methods, including mobile banking and online platforms, to reduce cash handling, congestion, and fraud risks during the school-fees payment period.
“Financial institutions should work with schools to support safer digital payment channels and sensitise parents about phishing emails, fake WhatsApp messages, and unsolicited discount offers,” Rusoke said.
Banks are advised to strengthen security around their premises, deploy visible security personnel, enhance CCTV coverage, and establish quick reporting channels with nearby police stations to respond to suspected fraudsters or robbers.
“Our goal is to ensure that as schools reopen, learners, parents, and institutions are fully protected from accidents, crime, and other risks,” Rusoke said.
