With only four days left to the official reopening of schools for the new academic year, the Inspector General of Police, Martin Ochola, has cautioned parents, teachers and students to be vigilant with security.
Some of the schools have already reopened for the 2023 academic year. Senior Commissioner of Police, Fred Enanga, the police spokesperson, who delivered Ochola’s statement said the police chief has reminded all stakeholders to protect school children from harm, including risks posed by health, safety and security.
Ochola has urged schools to adhere to security and healthy guidelines. “All schools are reminded to review their security emergency preparations, supervision and other school safety fundamentals. This includes the school visitor procedures and how access to school buildings is done in a high priority area,” Ochola said.
Police have recommended that all children are examined upon their return to school for any signs of child abuse during their holiday. This holiday has been longer than usual because many schools closed the 2022 third term mid November because of Ebola Virus Disease.
Police said when transporting children to school, ensure you walk with them to teach them safe habits around drop zones or in the classrooms. “For the boarding schools, establish contacts to monitor the safe arrival and presence of the children at school,” Ochola said.
This year’s academic program is resuming amidst terror threats. A number of terror suspects have been arrested in Kampala City, Wakiso, Mukono, Luweero, Masaka City, and Kasese districts.
Most of the arrested terror suspects have been found with bomb making materials or ready to detonate explosives. This is why security is emphasizing that all people must be security conscious.