Wed Sep 18 01:24:56 UTC 2024: ## South-East Governors Urged to Prioritize School Security Amid Rising Attacks

**Enugu, Nigeria** – The Civil Society Action Coalition on Education For All (CSACEFA) has issued a strong call to the governors of the South-East states to bolster security around public schools, citing rising concerns over various attacks on educational institutions.

Speaking on the 2024 ‘International Day To Protect Education From Attacks,’ Mrs. Eunice Egbuna, Zonal Coordinator of CSACEFA in the South-East, emphasized the need for proactive measures to ensure the safety of learners and teachers. She highlighted the theme of the day – ‘Learning for Lasting Peace,’ – and stressed that attacks on education undermine peace within the community.

Egbuna argued that the South-East region has witnessed alarming increases in attacks on education, including kidnappings, security presence within schools, and even natural disasters like flooding. She further pointed out that the region also faces challenges related to sexual and psychological abuse, bullying, and negligence, particularly within private schools.

“Attacks on education deprive learners of their fundamental rights to quality education, hinder teachers’ ability to perform their duties effectively, and ultimately disrupt the sustainable future of generations,” stated Egbuna.

CSACEFA advocated for the implementation of the Federal Government’s National Policy on Safety, Security and Violence-Free Schools (NPSSVFS 2021) by state governments and stakeholders. They emphasized the importance of collaborative efforts with education-focused civil society organizations to address issues like examination malpractices.

The group presented a series of recommendations for the governors, including:

* Enhancing physical security measures like perimeter fencing, gates, and increased guards
* Improving school infrastructure with new classrooms, seating, laboratories, and modern equipment
* Engaging in education policy reviews to address emerging challenges
* Incorporating risk and resilience education in the curriculum, focusing on disaster and violence management
* Promoting skill acquisition and entrepreneurship
* Implementing mother tongue instruction in early grades (Nursery to Primary 3)

CSACEFA highlighted their ongoing “E-Clap Project” in Abia State as a model for safe and effective learning, emphasizing the use of the mother tongue, technology, and non-formal instructional methods. They expressed their willingness to extend this project to other states upon request.

The group’s plea comes at a crucial time, with concerns over the safety and accessibility of education growing in the South-East region. Their call for concerted efforts from state governments and stakeholders is seen as a vital step towards securing a peaceful and prosperous future for the region’s children.

Read More