BACK TO SCHOOL: CHILD PROTECTION NETWORK AND GOVERNMENT MUST PRIORITIZE CHILDREN’S SAFETY AND WELL-BEING.

As students across Imo State return to school, a renewed and united effort is urgently needed from parents, educators, local authorities, and community leaders to ensure the safety, protection, and overall wellbeing of every child.

Peace Dike, Executive Director of the Virgin Heart Foundation, made this passionate call amid growing concerns about bullying, sexual abuse, digital threats, and mental health challenges within schools and their surrounding environments. She urged all relevant stakeholders to remain steadfast in their commitment to building safer and more inclusive learning environments for children in Imo State.

Dike stressed the importance of the state government and relevant ministries, particularly in collaboration with the Child Protection Network, taking direct responsibility by establishing Child Protection Committees. These committees, she noted, should include teachers, parents, and student representatives, and be tasked with reporting abuse, monitoring school safety, and promoting a positive and respectful school climate.

On the issue of Safe Routes to School, she called on local traffic authorities and community leaders to create safer pedestrian pathways, to deploy school crossing guards and ramp for Children with disabilities.. According to her, ensuring that children can travel to and from school without fear of harm must be a top priority.

Highlighting the urgent need for mental health support, Dike acknowledged the increasing emotional pressures faced by students. She recommended that every school have at least one Guidance and Counselling Officer and suggested the introduction of peer support programs to help address emotional distress and trauma among young people.

Addressing the dangers of unsupervised digital activity, the organization also advocated for stronger Online Safety Education. Dike emphasized that both parents and teachers must prioritize digital literacy and awareness to protect children from online predators, cyberbullying, and harmful content.

In conclusion, the Virgin Heart Foundation calls on all sectors of society to actively play their part in creating a safe, supportive, and empowering environment where every child in Imo State can thrive both in and out of the classroom.