As schools across Nigeria reopen for a new academic session, the collective responsibility of ensuring the safety and academic growth of children comes to the forefront. Both parents and schools play vital roles in safeguarding the well-being of students and fostering an environment where they can thrive academically. This guide explores key areas that parents and schools should focus on to ensure a successful and secure academic year.
-
-
Prioritizing Health and Safety Measures
-
In light of global health concerns and local security challenges, the safety of students remains a top priority. Parents and schools must be vigilant in implementing safety protocols both within and outside the school environment.
Health and Hygiene:
-
- Maintain proper sanitization of classrooms, restrooms, and common areas
- Ensure students have access to hand sanitizers and handwashing stations
- Implement regular health checks, including temperature monitoring
Parents, on the other hand, can:
-
- Encourage their children to maintain hygiene practices, such as washing hands frequently
- Keep children at home if they show any signs of illness to prevent the spread of infections
Security Measures:
According to a 2023 report by UNICEF, Nigeria has experienced myriads of reported cases of school-related abductions in the past five years, affecting the security of over 1,000 students. Schools should:
-
- Strengthen physical security measures by hiring trained security personnel.
- Install CCTV cameras and ensure secure entry and exit points.
- Partner with local law enforcement to ensure regular patrols around school premises.
Parents should engage with the school’s security policies and:
-
- Ensure their children understand basic safety procedures, such as reporting suspicious activity.
- Keep open communication lines with school authorities about their child’s whereabouts.
-
-
Fostering Academic Development Through Holistic Learning
-
In the face of Nigeria’s evolving educational challenges, academic excellence must be paired with holistic development. This includes not only a strong academic curriculum but also emotional and social growth.
Curriculum Enrichment:
Data from the West African Examinations Council (WAEC) indicates that only 54% of Nigerian students passed with credits in key subjects (Mathematics, English) in 2023 ( It is worthy of note that the stats were better for this year).This statistic underlines the need for schools to adopt more rigorous and comprehensive teaching strategies. Schools should:
-
- Provide personalized learning experiences by identifying students’ strengths and weaknesses.
- Incorporate technology in teaching to promote interactive learning, using tools such as Google Classroom, Zoom, and educational apps.
- Foster critical thinking and problem-solving skills by integrating inquiry-based learning methods.
Parents can complement these efforts by:
-
- Encouraging a reading culture at home to improve literacy and comprehension skills.
- Engaging in their children’s academic progress by reviewing assignments and attending parent-teacher meetings.
Extracurricular Activities and Emotional Well-being:
Children’s academic development is greatly enhanced when they are emotionally balanced. Schools should provide opportunities for students to engage in extracurricular activities such as sports, music, and debate clubs. A 2020 study by the Nigerian Educational Research and Development Council (NERDC) found that students involved in extracurricular activities show a 15% improvement in academic performance.
Parents can further support their children’s emotional well-being by:
-
- Encouraging participation in after-school programs.
- Being attentive to their children’s emotional needs and providing a supportive home environment.
-
-
Strengthening the Parent-School Relationship
-
A strong partnership between parents and schools is critical for the holistic development of the child. According to a study by Harvard University, students whose parents are actively engaged in their education are 30% more likely to succeed academically and socially.
Effective Communication:
Both parents and schools must establish clear and open lines of communication. Schools should:
-
- Regularly update parents on their child’s progress, behavioral changes, and any upcoming school events.
- Utilize parent-teacher conferences to discuss students’ academic and emotional development.
Parents, in turn, can:
-
- Maintain regular contact with teachers to stay informed about their child’s academic journey.
- Provide feedback to schools on how to improve educational delivery and student engagement.
Parental Involvement in Decision-Making:
Many Nigerian schools have found success in forming Parent-Teacher Associations (PTAs) to give parents a voice in school policies. Involving parents in key decisions regarding the curriculum, extracurricular activities, and safety measures fosters a more collaborative and supportive school environment.
-
-
Leveraging Technology for Academic Growth
-
The role of technology in modern education cannot be overstated. The digital learning revolution is in full swing, with the global e-learning market expected to surpass $325 billion by 2025. Nigerian schools are beginning to embrace digital learning platforms, but more needs to be done.
Technology in Classrooms:
Schools should adopt smart technologies, including projectors, interactive boards, and tablets, to engage students better. Data from the Federal Ministry of Education shows that schools integrating technology in classrooms reported a 20% increase in student participation and retention rates.
Parents should also:
-
- Provide children with access to learning apps and online educational resources.
- Monitor and guide their children’s usage of technology to ensure it enhances their learning experience.
Conclusion: Building a Strong Foundation for the Future
As schools resume across the country for the new academic session, it is imperative that both parents and schools work hand in hand to ensure the safety and academic development of students. By prioritizing health and security, enriching the curriculum, fostering strong parent-school relationships, and leveraging technology, we can create an environment where students not only succeed academically but also grow into well-rounded individuals.
The future of education in Nigeria depends on the commitment of all stakeholders to make the necessary improvements and adapt to changing times. With these strategies in place, this new academic session can be a stepping stone toward brighter futures for our children.
