As schools across the country reopened this week for the third term, police have issued a strong appeal to parents, banks, and school administrators to prioritize safety and security during this busy season.
Police spokesperson ACP Kituuma Rusoke said the return of thousands of learners not only raises concerns over child protection but also places pressure on transport systems, schools, and financial institutions.
“The return of children to school involves safety issues, bearings on public transport and security generally since there are financial transactions,” ACP Rusoke noted.
He urged banks to heighten vigilance at their premises, warning of fraudsters who often take advantage of the school season.
“We appeal to banks to heighten security in and around their premises to check potential fraudsters and con men. We also encourage the promotion of alternative payment methods, such as digital wallets and online banking, to reduce on-counter cash transactions,” Rusoke said.
The spokesperson also cautioned parents and guardians against acts of negligence commonly observed during school reopening.
“Some parents send children to school without adult supervision or entrust them to people who are not trustworthy. Others fail to pay attention to items children smuggle into their luggage, such as drugs, alcohol, distracting gadgets and even weapons,” he stressed.
Police further noted that some parents neglect to communicate critical medical information about their children to schools.
Turning to school administrators, ACP Rusoke called for vigilance when receiving students.
“Inspect pupils’ belongings because they may contain illegal substances, distracting gadgets, or dangerous weapons. Establish clear procedures for dropping and picking children, because incomplete personal details from parents often stifle investigations when incidents occur,” he said.
Police emphasized that schools must also address environmental hazards, including unsafe infrastructure.
“The overall safety of the school environment is of paramount importance. We deal with all dangers, such as open manholes, compromised structures like dilapidated latrines, and old school blocks,” ACP Rusoke cautioned.
He added that schools should maintain functional fire extinguishers and train both students and staff in their use as part of broader safety preparedness.
ACP Rusoke concluded by urging all stakeholders to work collectively.
“The safety of learners is a shared responsibility. Parents, schools, and banks must all play their role in protecting children and ensuring a safe environment as the third term progresses.”
