As the third school term kicks off across the country, Police has called on parents, financial institutions, and school administrators to step up measures that guarantee the safety of learners.
Police spokesperson ACP Kituuma Rusoke said the reopening season comes with unique risks ranging from child protection to financial fraud.
“The return of children to school involves safety issues, bearings on public transport and security generally since there are financial transactions,” ACP Rusoke noted.
Rusoke appealed to banks to tighten security around their premises, noting that fraudsters often target unsuspecting customers during the busy back-to-school period.
“We appeal to banks to heighten security in and around their premises to check potential fraudsters and con men. We also encourage the promotion of alternative payment methods, such as digital wallets and online banking, to reduce on-counter cash transactions,” he said.
He also highlighted unsafe practices among parents and guardians that expose children to danger.
“Some parents send children to school without adult supervision or entrust them to people who are not trustworthy. Others fail to pay attention to items children smuggle into their luggage, such as drugs, alcohol, distracting gadgets and even weapons,” he stressed.
He further reminded parents to share crucial medical information with schools for better child safety.
Rusoke urged schools to take an active role in monitoring and safeguarding learners from the moment they return to campus.
“Inspect pupils’ belongings because they may contain illegal substances, distracting gadgets, or dangerous weapons. Establish clear procedures for dropping and picking children, because incomplete personal details from parents often stifle investigations when incidents occur,” he said.
He also emphasized the importance of tackling environmental risks within schools.
“The overall safety of the school environment is of paramount importance. We deal with all dangers, such as open manholes, compromised structures like dilapidated latrines, and old school blocks,” ACP Rusoke cautioned.
Schools, he added, should be equipped with fire extinguishers and ensure both students and staff know how to use them.
Rusoke stressed that the well-being of learners requires cooperation from all sides.
“The safety of learners is a shared responsibility. Parents, schools, and banks must all play their role in protecting children and ensuring a safe environment as the third term progresses.
