As schools reopen for the first term today, the Uganda Police Force has issued comprehensive safety guidelines to parents, school administrators and financial institutions, urging all stakeholders to prioritise the security and wellbeing of learners.
Addressing journalists, Police spokesperson Kituuma Rusoke said the reopening of schools often comes with increased risks for children, especially during morning and evening movements, as well as during school-fees transactions.
“As learners return to school for first term, we call upon all parents, school proprietors and financial institutions to work closely with the Police to ensure the safety and security of children,” Rusoke said.
Advice to Parents and Guardians
Police have urged parents to personally escort children to and from school, particularly lower primary pupils and girls, and to avoid sending them alone very early in the morning or late in the evening.
Rusoke advised parents to teach children to use main roads, avoid shortcuts and isolated paths, walk in groups, and cross roads using designated crossings where available.
“Parents should also be keen on what their children are carrying to school because some learners may attempt to smuggle drugs, alcohol, distracting gadgets or even weapons in their bags,” he said.
Police further encouraged parents to inform school authorities about any medical conditions affecting their children, including medication and emergency contacts. For those using boda-bodas, Police insisted on one child per rider and the use of safety gear such as helmets and reflective jackets.
Parents were also advised to keep updated contact details for class teachers, matrons and school administrators, and to agree on clear and consistent pick-up and drop-off procedures.
Guidelines for Schools
Rusoke said schools must strengthen access control to prevent unauthorised persons from entering school premises.
“Schools should record all visitors, restrict unnecessary access, inspect vehicles entering school compounds and ensure there is a visible security presence at the gate, especially during drop-off and pick-up times,” he said.
He added that schools should establish clear procedures for releasing learners to guardians to avoid incidents of children going missing or being taken by unauthorised persons, especially in cases of domestic disputes.
Schools were also reminded to verify learners’ health status in line with Ministry of Health guidelines, inspect the school environment for hazards such as open manholes, cracked buildings, faulty wiring and unsafe latrines, and ensure fire extinguishers are functional and staff are trained in emergency response.
Police also recommended regular inspection of learners’ belongings to detect illegal substances, gadgets or dangerous items that could threaten safety.
Advice to Banks and Financial Institutions
With school-fees payments peaking, Police have also warned banks and financial institutions to be alert.
Rusoke urged banks to promote digital payment methods such as mobile and online banking to reduce congestion and the risks associated with cash transactions.
“We encourage financial institutions to work with schools to promote safer digital payment channels and to sensitise parents about phishing emails, fake WhatsApp messages and fraudulent ‘discount’ offers,” he said.
He added that banks should strengthen security around their premises by deploying visible security officers, enhancing CCTV surveillance and working closely with nearby police stations to quickly respond to any suspicious activity.“Our goal is to ensure that as schools reopen, learners, parents and institutions are protected from crime, accidents and exploitation,” Rusoke said.