Police in the Kigezi Region have issued a safety advisory to schools, parents, guardians and transport operators as learners begin travelling home for the Term II holiday.
The police said they will work with schools and other stakeholders to ensure the safe and orderly movement of learners returning home at the end of the school term.
According to the Kigezi Regional Police spokesperson, Nelson Tumushime, school administrators have been advised to liaise with the area District Police Commanders (DPCs) and Officers in Charge of police stations to ensure learners are released in an orderly manner and to avoid night travel.
“School administrators should make sure they liaise with area DPCs and OC stations to ensure orderly release of learners and avoid night travel,” Tumushime said.
Police have urged parents and guardians to pick up their children from school in time and avoid leaving them unattended. They have also been advised to use licensed transporters and ensure that children are not transported in overloaded vehicles.
Parents have also been encouraged to maintain communication with their children throughout the holiday and remain aware of their activities.
Police further urged parents and guardians to engage children in productive activities, including skills development and church activities, to keep them occupied during the holiday.
School administrators and transport operators have been directed to release learners during daytime, preferably before 5:00pm, to reduce risks associated with travelling at night.
Drivers transporting learners have also been warned against drink-driving, speeding and overloading, while members of the public have been encouraged to report suspicious individuals around schools, taxi parks and bus parks to the police.
