Protecting children and promoting their welfare is a fundamental responsibility of schools. In Nigeria, there have been efforts to make better the safeguarding systems in boarding schools, but there is still much work to be done.
In March 2020, the Model School Safeguarding and Child Protection Policy was published, outlining the core principles of safeguarding children in Nigerian schools. These principles include the school's responsibility to safeguard and promote the welfare of children, the involvement of representatives from the whole-school community in policy development and review, and the annual review of policies.
In August 2021, the Federal Ministry of Education published the National Policy on Safety, Security, and Violence-Free Schools with its Implementing Guidelines. This policy aims to provide high-quality education for learners at all levels in safe and secure learning environments. It also commits to ensuring that all forms of educational pursuit continue during armed conflict and that countries implement concrete measures to deter the use of academic institutions by the military.
Despite these efforts, there is still a need for improvement in safeguarding systems in Nigerian boarding schools. The Nigerian government has recognized this need and has launched advocacy and sensitization programs on safeguarding and child protection, as well as awareness campaigns with an emphasis on the rights of the Nigerian child. Partnerships and collaborations with government agencies, private organizations, schools, and childcare centers are also being established to improve safeguarding systems.
Nonetheless, some reports indicate that the Nigerian educational system is still facing a crisis and that there are issues with infrastructure, funding, and teacher training that need to be addressed. These issues can impact the ability of schools to effectively safeguard their students. It's important to continue to raise awareness and advocate for improvements in the educational system to ensure the safety and well-being of all students.
While progress has been made in improving safeguarding systems in Nigerian boarding schools, there is still much work to be done. Continued efforts to raise awareness, establish partnerships, implement effective policies, and provide excellent pastoral care are necessary to ensure that all children in Nigerian boarding schools are safe and protected.
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