Windhoek: The National Organisation of Parents in Education (NAOPE) has called on parents, students, educational institutions, and communities to prioritise learner and student safety at all levels of education, from pre-primary to institutions of higher learning.
According to Namibia Press Agency, a media statement issued on Monday by NAOPE spokesperson Salome Kambala highlighted particular concerns regarding the safety of students at universities and colleges, both on and off campus. The organisation noted that many students face avoidable risks due to limited safety awareness, lack of self-control, and unsafe daily practices.
Kambala emphasized the need for a national recommitment to prioritising the safety of children and students. "As a nation, we must recommit ourselves to placing the safety of our children and students first. Through vigilance, cooperation and shared responsibility, we can significantly reduce risks and create safer learning environments for all," she stated.
The organisation urged students to engage actively in campus safety structures and community safety societies where such initiatives exist. NAOPE also called on institutional management and campus security officers to hold regular safety awareness meetings to equip students with practical measures for improving their personal safety.
Additionally, NAOPE advised students to avoid walking alone during early mornings and late evenings and to limit the public display of valuables such as laptops, laptop bags, and mobile phones. The organisation further cautioned students to exercise greater care when using public transport and to consider potential risks before accepting transport arrangements.
Parents were encouraged to take a more proactive role by monitoring attendance, maintaining regular communication with their children, and establishing contact with teachers, tutors, or lecturers. NAOPE emphasized that strengthened cooperation between parents and educators is critical to ensuring safer learning environments as the academic year progresses.