Funmi Ogundare
TLS Ikoyi recently held its friendship day to commemorate St. Valentine’s Day, aimed at promoting love, while emphasising the importance of child protection, safety and healthy living within the school environment.
In her remarks, the Administrator, Miss Oyindamola Egbeyemi, said safety in schools is all encompassing as it has to do with the total upbringing of the child. “We have to look at their psychological security. Is the child happy? Is he able to express himself? How does the school ensure that he is okay and has a high sense of confidence?”
She expressed concern that some schools are not security conscious, saying that aside ensuring that children are in a safety environment, there is need to get their foundation right which is important.
“We value education and for the 21st century children, you have to emphasis on continuous improvement, if you don’t get the foundation right, then it will be weak.
A child protection expert, Mr. Taiwo Omilani also stressed on safety in schools, adding that parents and the management of schools must work together to ensure a bright future for children.
“Parents must give 70 and the school must give 30 per cent care for the children. You have to invest in the kind of education and care you want for you children.”
He appealed to parents to continue to partner with schools for a better future for their children.
The Head Teacher of the school, Ms. Busola Aina, who highlighted the significance of the friendship day said, “everybody celebrates Valentine’s Day which cuts across all strata as just a one off celebration, but it reminds us of the importance of friendship and keeping a long lasting relationship.
“We all need people around us, it is the relationship that keeps and encourages us.”
On the importance of a healthy living, Aina said it also enhances a relationship. “You are able to play and work together. Health is the centre of our lives. So we decided to create that forum for our parents to live healthy and also encourage their children to eat fruits and vegetables which are very good for their health.
“Introducing fruits and vegetables to parents is not strange, healthy living and lifestyle is very important and children get to know the benefits of eating fruits especially.”
