The Speaker of Parliament Anita Among has called on school management and stakeholders to put in place safety measures and intensify vigilance in school premises to reduce the overwhelming number of child deaths in schools.
During a parliamentary session today February 25, 2025, asked for increased responsibility among teachers.
In her communication, she cited recent incidents, including a child who drowned in a swimming pool, another who was murdered and thrown into a pit latrine, and a student who died by suicide at Seeta High School.
She reminded teachers of their strict liability for children’s safety, warning that they could be held accountable for negligence.
“We cannot continue to lose young lives due to preventable incidents in our schools. Teachers and school administrators must take full responsibility for the safety of students under their care,” Anita stated.
Anita cautioned that institutions failing to implement necessary safety measures would face consequences.
She further urged schools to establish clear safety protocols, adding, “Schools must put in place stringent security measures to prevent such tragedies. It is their duty to ensure that every child is protected while on school premises.”
The Speaker’s remarks have drawn mixed reactions from various stakeholders, with many calling for urgent reforms in school safety policies.
Several parents expressed fear and frustration over the tragic incidents, urging schools to strengthen safety measures.
However, many teachers argue that they do their best, so some incidents are beyond their control, Parents also have a role in counselling children on personal safety and mental health.
Education analysts have emphasized the need for regulatory changes to address safety gaps adding that schools should have clear emergency response measures, mental health programs, and better surveillance systems.
They recommended that schools hire professional counsellors to support students facing emotional distress.
The Education Minister Janet Mukwaya. pledged to review the existing safety guidelines.
“We are engaging school administrators to ensure safety protocols are strictly followed. Schools that fail to comply will face sanctions,” Mukwaya stated.
As investigations into the recent incidents continue, the Speaker of Parliament Anita Among, parents and teachers are calling for immediate and concrete actions to prevent further tragedies in learning institutions.
