Kaduna state governor, Malam Uba Sani has said the state government has begun the merging of 359 primary and secondary schools from troubled areas to safer locations.
He made this known during a capacity-building programme organized by the Nigerian Police Force Schools Protection Squad held in Kaduna on Wednesday.
Represented by the Chief of Staff, Kaduna Government House, Sani Kila, the governor maintained that in order to ensure that the education of the children in conflicts – prone and terrorist-infested areas is not interrupted, “we have commenced the merging of 359 schools with those in safe locations.
“We are also implementing our SAFE SCHOOL PROGRAM to strengthen the security in our primary and secondary schools.”
To this end, the governor remarked, “We are collaborating with the Nigeria Police Force which is currently training a Schools Protection Squad (SPS).
He equally disclosed that the state government have made adequate budgetary provision for the effective implementation of the Safe School Program, saying some of the measures being adopted are fencing of schools and establishment of Security and Safety Response Committees with membership drawn from schools and communities.
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Construction of Muster Points in schools, Training on identification of Early Warning Signs and Construction of Watch Tower in schools, are some of the measures adopted according to the governor.
Earlier, the state Commissioner of Police, CP Audu Dabigi said the establishment of the School Protection Squad signifies a monumental step towards ensuring the safety and security of educational institutions, which is the bedrock of our society.
Dabigi explained that it is a testament to a collective commitment to safeguarding the future of children and fostering an environment conducive to learning and development.
“As we embark on this journey, let us remember the importance of collaboration and unity in achieving our goals.
“Together, with the support of our community stakeholders, we can overcome any challenge and create a safer, more secure environment for our students, teachers, and staff.
“I urge every one of us to embrace the mission of the School Protection Squad wholeheartedly and to work tirelessly towards its success. Together, we can make a difference and ensure that every child in Kaduna State has the opportunity to pursue his/her education in a safe and secure environment.”
NIGERIAN TRIBUNE
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