The Ministry of Education has recognized that inadequate school infrastructure poses significant challenges in ensuring Occupational Health and Safety (OHS) in schools. Education Minister Aseri Radrodro highlighted concerns raised from a recent evaluation of Nabua Primary School, where students are learning under unsafe conditions.
Mr. Radrodro mentioned that initial reports indicate issues with the school’s construction project, which was left incomplete by previous management. He emphasized that the current administration is actively working with the new management to address these shortcomings. If the school requires assistance from the government, it’s essential for them to formally request help through the Ministry of Education, and the ministry will assess how it can support the completion of the building.
Many classrooms at Nabua Primary School are reported to have rusted roofs and windows that pose safety risks, with openings large enough for students to potentially exit through them. Additionally, inquiries regarding OHS conditions at the school have been made to Minister of Employment, Productivity and Industrial Relations, Agni Deo Singh. His office confirmed that a team visited the school on November 4, with a report expected to be released on November 5. However, despite multiple follow-ups, there has been no communication from the ministry regarding the OHS report.
It is crucial for the Ministry of Education and other responsible bodies to prioritize the safety and well-being of students in the school system. Addressing the infrastructure challenges head-on not only helps ensure a safer learning environment but also demonstrates a commitment to improving the overall quality of education.
This situation highlights the importance of cooperative efforts between governmental agencies and educational institutions to enhance safety standards and create conditions conducive to learning. There is hope that proactive steps will soon be taken to rectify these issues, ensuring that students can focus on their education rather than their safety.
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