The Parental Role in Ensuring Safety<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n\u201cParents must have a keen interest in what goes on in school, especially boarding schools,\u201d asserted Bright Appiah. His statement stresses the necessity for parents to engage actively with school policies, health protocols, and daily operations. This proactive approach goes beyond periodic visits, demanding a thorough understanding of how schools manage student welfare.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Informed Choices and Vigilance<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\nParents are advised to conduct detailed research on prospective schools. \u201cOne of the key things you have to look out for as a parent is how safe the school is for your child,\u201d Appiah noted. This includes visiting schools, inspecting facilities, and reviewing emergency protocols.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Appiah further emphasised the need for schools to be transparent with parents about their facilities. \u201cSchools must walk parents through the facilities they have so parents are aware of the situation in the school,\u201d he added. Awareness of the state of sick bays, medical staff availability, and emergency procedures can greatly impact student safety.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Active Engagement and Advocacy<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\nParents should be prepared to ask difficult questions and demand transparency from school authorities. \u201cPolicies should be geared towards the welfare of children and not just to protect the school\u2019s image,\u201d Appiah emphasized. Advocating for comprehensive health policies and monitoring their implementation are essential for holding schools accountable.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Divine Kpe supported this by urging parents to ensure schools are informed of any pre-existing medical conditions. \u201cParents should present medical records of their wards to school authorities,\u201d he advised. This helps schools provide the necessary care and prevents emergencies from escalating.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Support and Resources<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\nThe necessity of proper resources in schools is another critical point raised. Kpe suggested that parent-teacher associations and alumni should contribute resources such as ambulances. \u201cOld students and parent-teacher associations have to resource schools with ambulances,\u201d he said. Adequate medical facilities and equipment are crucial to managing health issues effectively.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Building a Safe School Environment<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\nCreating a safe school environment is a collective responsibility. While school authorities, teachers, and staff must be held accountable, parents also play a vital role. By remaining informed and engaged, parents can significantly enhance their children\u2019s safety in boarding schools.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Tragic Realities and the Need for Reform<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\nThe alarming statistics revealed by Appiah highlight an urgent need for systemic reforms. \u201cFrom 2021 to date, we have recorded 11 deaths in our secondary schools, with nine of these deaths resulting from medical negligence,\u201d he stated. This data calls for increased vigilance and systemic changes to prevent further tragedies.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Looking Ahead<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\nOrganizations like Child Rights International and Africa Edu Watch are working to improve safety standards in boarding schools. Parents can support these efforts by staying informed, participating in advocacy, and collaborating with school authorities.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
The ongoing dialogue about the safety of boarding schools in Ghana reveals that while systemic changes are necessary, the active involvement of parents is crucial to safeguarding students’ lives and health. For ongoing updates and further information on how to get involved, visit gbcghanaonline.com.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Watch interview here: <\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n