By Adepote Arowojobe
Talentplus Resources International (TRI), an NGO, on Saturday in Ikorodu sensitised teachers and security guards to child rights and safety in primary schools in Lagos State.
The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that the NGO is supported by Development Research and Project Centre (DRPC), and Ford Foundation.
Mrs Aderonke K-Eseka, Executive Director, TRI, said their primary objective was to sensitise teachers and head teachers to know that they had responsibility as co-parents to ensure the safety of children in schools.
K-Eseka noted that the organisation’s mission was geared towards child education, youths development, women empowerment, research and child’s right in the society.
“Some of the things we look at is the safe school declaration and the four pillars on the policy of security and safety.
“We also look at child’s rights, roles and responsibilities of taking care of these children while they are in schools.
“We also look at the evacuation of children in times of emergencies,” she said.
According the director, the current insecurity challenges in the country are worrisome and students of primary and secondary schools are not left out.
She said that Lagos Safe School Technical Working Group was set up for training and advocacy for head teachers, teachers and guards in all public schools across the state.
She also appealed to the state government to increase education budget, set aside funds for school safety and put in place all safety parameters like fences, guards, good toilet and a conducive and environment safe for learning.
K-Eseka advised parents to prioritise nurturing and education of their children, teaching them good morals, provision of basic amenities like writing materials because government alone could not do all.
“Recently, we paid advocacy visit to Lagos state government and also looking forward to meeting the local government chairmen and community leaders because safety of children during school hours is key.
“This is why we are advocating and engaging both teachers, school managers, local government authorities, state ministry and stakeholders in education sector.
“We want to do more, go into schools to educate them as we have done at the local government area level.
“Lagos State Government has taken care of 80 per cent basic needs of primary school pupils, providing textbooks, uniform, shoes; parents should also provide the writing materials .
“We want to ensure that every school in Lagos State conforms with minimum standard of safe school and conduct pasted on school walls for students to read,” she said.
Mrs Adeyinka Ajobiewe, a teacher at Owode Primary school, Ibelefun, Ikorodu, commended the organisers and promised to take the advocacy back to her school for assessment and implementation, saying “it’s very educative and impactful”.
Also, Mrs Ayo Otubamowo, a staff at the LGEA Basic Education, urged the NGO to sustain the training so that more schools could benefit and get acquainted with safety measures. (NAN) (www.nannews.ng)
Edited by Chidinma Agu/Idris Abdulrahman
