“Technology, as we all know, is a big part of our lives today, and this cuts across to the children. Nigerian parents must ensure they keep an eye on their children’s digital lives. While many schools are integrating more online learning tools, this comes with the risk of children accessing inappropriate content or falling prey to online predators. Parents should monitor their children’s internet usage, setting boundaries for screen time, and ensuring that parental controls”
As schools reopen, parents are often faced with the responsibility of ensuring their children’s safety and well-being both within and beyond the school premises. In today’s Nigeria, where dangers can be as subtle as they are
pervasive, vigilance is key. For many parents, this period is not just about purchasing new uniforms, books, and school supplies, but also about taking
proactive measures to protect their children from various risks.
One of the most pressing concerns in the country is the issue of security. With reports of kidnappings in some regions, particularly in the northern part of the country. it’s crucial for parents to assess the security measures of their children’s schools. Parents should inquire about the school’s protocols for managing emergencies, the presence of security personnel, and how entry and exit points are monitored. Schools that offer transportation services should also be closely
analysed for safety measures, ensuring drivers are vetted and vehicles are properly maintained.
Another area of concern is health and hygiene. With the lingering presence of infectious diseases, such as malaria, typhoid, and the latest Mpox, parents need to ensure that schools are enforcing proper hygiene protocols. This includes enduring the availability of clean water, soap, hand sanitizers, and well-maintained sanitation facilities. Schools should also have provisions for
handling potential outbreaks, such as designated sick bays and clear
communication with parents about health concerns. Parents, in turn, should teach their children the importance of personal hygiene—washing hands
regularly, avoiding close contact with sick individuals, and maintaining good nutrition to boost their immunity.
The issue of bullying, both physical and cyber, is also another issue parents should look into with reported cases of Nigerian children being victims of this
menace. To combat this, parents should foster open communication with their
children, ensuring that they feel comfortable reporting any form of bullying or harassment they may encounter. At the same time, parents need to be attentive
to their children’s behavior. Unexplained mood changes, withdrawal, or reluctance to attend school may be warning signs of bullying or other distressing experiences. Schools should have anti-bullying policies in place and
provide students with a safe environment to report such incidents.
Technology, as we all know, is a big part of our lives today, and this cuts across to the children. Nigerian parents must ensure they keep an eye on their children’s digital lives. While many schools are integrating more online learning tools, this comes with the risk of children accessing inappropriate content or falling prey to online predators. Parents should monitor their children’s internet usage, setting boundaries for screen time, and ensuring that parental controls
are in place. Conversations about the responsible use of technology should be frequent, emphasizing the dangers of sharing personal information online and the importance of staying safe in digital spaces.
Lastly, financial planning is a vital aspect of school resumption that cannot be overlooked. With the economic challenges many families face in Nigeria, ensuring that school fees, uniforms, books, and other supplies are budgeted for well in advance can reduce stress on both parents and children. It is important to avoid last-minute financial scrambling, which could lead to children being denied access to learning. Where possible, parents should explore scholarship opportunities or flexible payment plans offered by schools to ease the burden of
school-related expenses.
Parents, it is not too late to be proactive in securing your children’s safety and overall well-being with the start of a new school term. Remember schooling in the life of a child is not just about academics; it is a holistic experience that touches on security, health, emotional welfare, and financial stability.
“In everything set them an example by doing what is good” Titus 2:7.
Meanwhile, I am delighted to inform you that come October 1, 2024, we at NISSI Safety Management Institute: An Institute famous for Peace Leadership
will be celebrating our 20th Anniversary.
To this end is our campaign to spread the education of peace leadership to both
the old and young, women and children in various places from corporate organizations, to political organizations, worship centers, educational institutions, markets, and communities.
It is our belief that the more educated the people are in respect to peace leadership, the more peaceful our country will become.
So this is a call to action to hop on our Peace campaign train, to arm yourself, your friends, your colleagues, your employees, and your congregation with
contemporary peace leadership knowledge that makes for a happier and more fulfilled life, personally and collectively.
Kindly call or send a message on Whatsapp to +2347065828892, to be a beneficiary of this.
And in respect to the message of this edition is my book titled ‘The Child’s Best Interest’ where you could glean more knowledge on how to protect your child both at home and in school. It is not only handy for parents but also for
government officials and school owners. To get a copy, send me a message via Whatsapp on +2347065828892.
Prof. Ofonime Emmanuel Bassey is a Leadership, Conflict, Peace, and Security Management Coach with decades of experience in the practice and promotion of
Law Enforcement, Peace, and Security through the Nigeria Police and the United Nations.
He has served and interacted at the top level management of the Nigeria Police as well as internationally as a United Nation’s Monitor/Mentor in Kosovo, Europe.
Ofonime is a certified United Nation’s Trainer, and currently a Professor of Leadership, Peace, and Conflict Resolution with ICOF University, USA/Zambia and a Professor of Peace Education with Charismatic International University, Cameroon.
With his marks well-established in Peace Leadership both in Nigeria and Africa, he is the President, NISSI Safety Management Institute: An Institute famous for Peace Leadership.
Presently, he is spearheading a campaign tagged “The Next Peace Leaders”, a campaign that is billed to run from 2022-2030 with a target of training 37,000
young peace leaders.
For leadership, conflict, peace and security consultations and trainings, reach him via:
Facebook: Dr. O.E Bassey
LinkedIn: Dr. O.E Bassey
X: Dr. O.E Bassey
WhatsApp: +2347065828892
Mail: emmanuelbassey@gmail.com
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