The Teachers Service Commission (TSC) has issued a stern warning to school heads who fail to comply with safety standards in their institutions. In a circular dated September 13, 2024, TSC CEO Nancy Macharia highlighted concerns that some school heads have not fully implemented the provisions of the Safety Standards Manual for Schools, a critical policy document aimed at ensuring the welfare of learners. This lapse, according to Macharia, is not only a breach of the manual but also contravenes the Code of Regulations for Teachers and the Code of Conduct and Ethics.
The recent warning comes in the wake of increasing concerns over safety in schools, exacerbated by incidents of indiscipline, unrest, and even tragic occurrences like the recent dormitory fire at Endarasha Hillside Academy, which claimed the lives of 21 male pupils. The cause of the fire is still under investigation, but it has raised alarms about the enforcement of safety protocols in educational institutions.
Non-Compliance and Laxity in Enforcement
In her communication, Macharia expressed disappointment that a number of school heads have exhibited laxity in enforcing compliance with the safety guidelines outlined in the manual and in administrative circulars issued by the government. This laxity, she emphasized, poses significant risks to the safety and well-being of learners.
“The Commission shall take firm disciplinary action against those found to have flouted the guidelines stipulated in the Manual, in accordance with the provisions of the Code of Regulations for Teachers and the Code of Conduct and Ethics,” Macharia stated. This highlights the TSC’s commitment to holding school heads accountable and ensuring that safety standards are not compromised under any circumstances.
Directive to Enhance Supervision and Collaboration
Macharia’s directive called for immediate and stringent enforcement of all provisions of the Safety Standards Manual and related circulars. She urged school heads to enhance the supervision of learners to promptly detect and address cases of learner indiscipline or unrest. According to the TSC CEO, proactive measures and vigilance are crucial in preventing incidents that could escalate into major safety breaches.
To bolster the efforts to maintain safety in schools, Macharia instructed school heads to collaborate with law enforcement agencies to investigate cases of arson, indiscipline, and other safety-related issues. This collaboration is aimed at recommending both administrative and legal actions against the perpetrators of such acts, ensuring that justice is served, and safety protocols are upheld.
Furthermore, school heads are required to work closely with Ministry of Education field officers and the National Government Administration Officers to maintain safety standards. This directive underscores the importance of a coordinated approach involving various stakeholders to ensure a safe learning environment for students.
Ensuring Presence and Vigilance in Schools
In a bid to further tighten safety measures, Macharia mandated that school heads, alongside Deputy Heads of Institution and Senior Masters in charge of boarding programs, must remain vigilant and be present in schools at all times. “You are required to be vigilant and remain in school at all times to ensure learners’ safety,” she reiterated.
This directive underscores the TSC’s recognition of the critical role that school leadership plays in maintaining discipline and safety. By ensuring that senior school officials are always present and actively supervising, the TSC aims to prevent lapses that could lead to tragedies like the recent Endarasha Hillside Academy incident.
Conclusion
The TSC’s warning serves as a critical reminder of the paramount importance of safety in schools. With the recent tragic incident at Endarasha Hillside Academy still fresh in the nation’s memory, there is an urgent need for school heads to strictly adhere to safety guidelines and take proactive measures to protect learners. The TSC’s commitment to enforcing these standards and holding school leaders accountable is a necessary step toward safeguarding the welfare of students across the country.
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