The Katsina State Government has officially launched a new policy aimed at ensuring the safety and security of schools across the state. Governor Dikko Umaru Radda introduced the Safety, Security and Violence-Free Schools Policy, emphasizing the importance of protecting students, teachers, and educational facilities from various threats.
During the launch event, Governor Radda described the initiative as a significant step forward in safeguarding education and securing the future of children in Katsina. He highlighted that education is fundamental to development and peace, and meaningful learning can only thrive in safe and secure settings.
The governor expressed deep concern over the growing challenges facing schools, including insecurity, gender-based violence, bullying, gang activities, substance abuse, and environmental hazards. He noted that schools in Katsina have experienced incidents that disrupt learning and endanger lives.
“This is not just the unveiling of a policy document, but a clear declaration of our commitment to ensuring that every school in Katsina becomes a safe haven for learning,” Radda stated.
The policy is adapted from the 2021 national framework on safe schools, tailored to address local realities and challenges within the state. According to the governor, the framework prioritizes prevention and preparedness, strengthens early warning systems, emergency response, and recovery mechanisms, and provides psychosocial support for affected learners and teachers.
Radda further explained that the policy integrates school safety into planning, budgeting, and implementation processes at all government levels. It clearly defines the responsibilities of key stakeholders, including government agencies, schools, security institutions, parents, and community leaders, in creating safer learning environments across the state.