JUSTICE PEACE ARENA: KSF RADIO PROGRAM.
The 49th Edition of Justice Peace Arena Radio Show of the Kwamkur Samuel Foundation for Justice Peace Development in partnership with the Plateau Radio Television Corporation (PRTVC) came up with Comr. Gyang Irimiya Davou, President, National Association of Plateau State Students (NAPSS) National Body as Guest on the Show discussing the topic; "Ensuring a safe Academic Environment: Students Perspective." Anchored by Mr Pam Doyle.
Education as the bedrock of any nation has recently come under severe challenges especially the fall in standard and safety of the students.
The challenges have been haive with increase in insecurity leading to daylight kidnapping of students and teachers for ransom which is further been exacerbated by direct attacks on the school communities as witness in Plateau State University Bokkos.
Doing justice to the topic the guest on the show Comr. Gyang began by outlining the aims and objectives of the National Association of Plateau State Students (NAPSS) as an association that is dedicated to supporting its members both within and outside Plateau State. Some of its key objectives include:
- Promoting the educational advancement and empowerment of its members
- Fostering peace, unity, and solidarity among its members at both state and national levels
- Serving as a vital communication channel between the student body and the government, as well as facilitating dialogue between the government and students.
Following the recent attack in Bokkos and the subsequent student protest, which unfortunately resulted in many students being affected, he revealed that he has been in constant communication with the institution's management to enhance the security measures on campus. Currently, the school has only one security checkpoint at the main entrance, manned by only eight soldiers. This is woefully inadequate, as it's unrealistic to expect just eight security personnel to effectively protect a student population approximately 10,000. The need for a robust security architecture is clear, and efforts should be made to address this critical issue.
He explained further that to encourage students to be part of this security movement, it's essential to raise awareness and educate them on the importance of adopting proper security protocols which can be achieved by:
- Sensitizing them to recognize and report potential danger signs and suspicious activities.
- Encouraging them to promptly alert authorities when necessary.
- Emphasizing the need to comply with rules and regulations put in place to ensure their safety and well-being.
He urges the school administration and government to prioritize student rehabilitation, as many are still traumatized. Additionally, he advocates for government support in providing basic infrastructure, such as electricity, to the school area, where most students reside. This would significantly reduce insecurities, as students would no longer need to venture out at night to charge their phones and lanterns.
Notably, NAPSS has already taken initiative by procuring transformer street lights and poles, and now seeks government assistance to complete this critical project.
He condemned the destructive protests, emphasizing that a small minority was responsible for the recent Plasu incident, while the majority of students were innocent bystanders. He appealed to the management to reconsider the blanket fine imposed on all students.
Additionally, he urged students to adopt a more constructive approach, employing the 3Cs: Consult, Consolidate, and Confront (as a last resort). He encouraged them to seek smart, dialogue-driven solutions, rather than resorting to protests, which often lead to unnecessary destruction.
In his parting words, he cautioned students to always exercise wisdom in their decision-making, as they will be directly impacted by the consequences, whether positive or negative. He also offered his heartfelt condolences to the families of the students who lost their loved ones during the tragic protest, as well as to the entire Bokkos community, who have been affected by the unrest. In his final words to the victims he said; "May the victims' memories be honored and may the community find peace and healing."
Njien Racheal James,
KSF Information Secretary.
6th May, 2024.
