The Ministry of Employment, Productivity and Industrial Relations has initiated an investigation following a troubling incident in which a concrete septic slab collapsed at a school, resulting in two students falling into a sewer during recess last Friday. This incident has ignited concerns regarding the safety protocols in place within the school environment.
An upset parent of one of the affected students voiced significant worries about the school’s safety measures. The parent highlighted that the children were using a concrete structure, which had been frequently used without incident, when it unexpectedly gave way. Expressing disbelief over the situation, the parent remarked, “It’s frightening to think what could have happened.”
Moreover, the parent criticized the lack of communication from the school administration following the accident, asserting that parents were not properly informed. “We received no call to let us know what had occurred, no apology, and no explanation. We were just told to pick up our child without knowledge of the incident,” the parent explained. They emphasized that it was unacceptable to learn about the details from another student instead of the school directly.
Concerns about the response to the incident were echoed by other students, who felt that the teachers did not provide adequate care or attention after the fall. The parent added that if the area had been deemed unsafe, proper precautions such as barriers, warning signs, or clear instructions should have been in place to prevent such accidents.
Minister Agni Deo Singh has acknowledged the incident and confirmed that a thorough investigation is underway, promising to release the findings promptly. The concerned parent concluded by referencing the tragic accident at the Lautoka school gate, insisting that proactive measures must be instituted to ensure that hazards are identified and rectified before incidents occur.
This event serves as a crucial reminder of the importance of ensuring student safety in schools. As investigations continue, it is hopeful that this accident will prompt the necessary changes to prevent future occurrences and improve communication between schools and families.
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