NAIROBI: 10th October 2024
Director City Education Ms. Ruth Owuor while addressing participants who attended a two-day training at Lavington Primary School said, “Teachers are critical in equipping educators with essential skills to ensure the holistic development and well-being of young learners emphasizing the importance of child safety and preparedness for emergencies.” She stressed the need for teachers to be vigilant and prepared to handle crisis and ensure classes meet safety requirements as provided for in the safety manual.
The Director said the training session focused on three vital areas: creating a safe learning environment, first aid, and anti-corruption practices. Each of these topics play a crucial role in shaping a secure, nurturing, and ethical learning environment for children in their formative years. “As a teacher, it is important to be vigilant, active in supervision, and be proactive to ensure every child feels safe and secure in the learning space. She said the County ECDE centers are all equipped with a safety manual and encouraged them to always remind themselves of the safety protocols.
Ms. Owuor emphasized on the importance of individual accountability for students. She stressed that each teacher is responsible for a specific number of students, regardless of class size. “This responsibility extends beyond the classroom, encompassing mealtimes, playtime, and all other school activities.”
Assistant Director Disaster Management Mr. Ivan Isialila took the participants through one of the primary goals of the workshop, which was to equip teachers with strategies to foster a safe and supportive atmosphere in and outside the classroom. The teachers were trained on how to assess risks within the school environment and how to implement child-friendly, protective policies. Teachers learned to identify physical, emotional, and psychological threats and were introduced to tools for addressing issues such as bullying, neglect, or unsafe facilities.
Sharon Barbra from Fire Rescue said “Given the vulnerability of young children to accidents, injuries, or sudden health issues, first aid training is essential for ECDE teachers.” The teachers received hands-on training on how to respond to various medical emergencies that could occur in a school setting. Topics covered included dealing with cuts, burns, choking, and fractures, as well as recognizing signs of more serious conditions like allergic reactions or asthma attacks. Teachers were also trained on basic CPR techniques and the importance of having a well-stocked first aid kit readily available.
A representative from EACC said “This session aims to create awareness among teachers about ethical practices and the dangers of corruption in the school system.” Teachers were trained on Chapter Six of the constitution and the leadership and integrity Act 2012, recognizing corrupt practices, such as bribery, mismanagement of school resources, and favoritism, and were provided with strategies to promote transparency and accountability. “EACC also encourages teachers to form Integrity Clubs at that tender age using a language that resonates with the young learners.
Raphael Kinyungu Deputy Director Education said “The training sought to provide teachers with a comprehensive skill set to better protect and nurture their learners, empower teachers to serve as role models of integrity, ensuring that the youngest learners grow up in environments where honesty and fairness are upheld.” He told the participants to put into practice the knowledge they have gained from the training.
The Deputy Director reiterated the importance of attention to detail, even in seemingly small matters. He warned against the potential consequences of discrepancies between attendance records and actual student presence. By ensuring that teachers are accountable for their students, Kinyungu aimed to create a more responsible and effective learning environment. He also encouraged the teachers to ensure there is accurate health records concerning the health of the learners.
In attendance were Deputy Director Leonard Mititi Vocational Training, Assistant Directors Irene Ndanga and Rosalia Ndambuki.
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