Fiji: Call to improve school security

Mr Jone, a father of seven children, said parents and the school should work together and talk about other issues affecting student safety, not just unlawful entry into schools.

Ahmadiyya Times | News Staff | Int'l Desk
Source & Credit:  Fiji Times Online
Harold Koi | Saturday, April 03, 2010

TWO Head-teachers have expressed concern about safety at schools and the important need for parents' involvement.

The Ahmadiyya Muslim Primary School in Narere has put in place strict measures for students' safety after a Class Three student was brutally assaulted and raped at a school in Suva.

Head-teacher Mohammed Hannif said the school used to have three points of entrance and exist for students which they reduced to one.


Mr Hannif said the decision to shut down two entrances was to minimize unnecessary movement in and out of the school premises.

"The alleged brutal attack was really unfortunate and everybody feels for the little girl. And this is also an eye opener to us as teachers and parents," he said.

"We should not wait for troubles like this to stir up preventive measures in schools. Issues of safety at schools should be visited more often."

Mr Hannif said students had been advised to return home after school and refrain from hanging around the school compound for unnecessary reasons.

Teachers have also been told to be early in school because some students arrive by 730am.

Marist Brothers Primary School Head-teacher Iosefo Jone said parents should get involved and work with teachers on student safety in schools .

Mr Jone, a father of seven children, said parents and the school should work together and talk about other issues affecting student safety, not just unlawful entry into schools.

Read the original post here: Call to improve school security