An educationist and Founder of Egalitarian Team, Oyo State, Egalitarian Segun O. Akinlabi has called on schools and parents across the country to take proactive measures to protect children from the ongoing intense heatwave.
Akinlabi, who is also the Publisher of Egalitarian Voice Media, made the call on Wednesday while reacting to reports of extreme heat affecting school pupils in Oyo State and other parts of Nigeria.
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According to him, children are more vulnerable to heat-related illnesses due to their physiology, and the current weather condition poses serious health risks if not properly managed.
“The heat we are experiencing now is no longer normal. Schools must prioritize the safety and well-being of pupils over academic activities,” Akinlabi state
He urged school owners and administrators to adjust school hours where possible, ensure adequate ventilation in classrooms, provide access to clean drinking water, and discourage pupils from staying under direct sun during break periods.
He also advised parents to dress their children in light cotton uniforms, ensure they go to school with water bottles, and give them fruits that help the body stay hydrated.
“We must not wait until a child collapses before we act. The life of every child matters. Parents should also monitor their children at home, avoid giving them too much sugary drinks, and ensure they rest well,” he added.
Egalitarian Segun Akinlabi further called on the government and the Ministry of Education to issue clear guidelines to schools on managing extreme weather conditions to prevent heatstroke and other related illnesses.
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He emphasized that protecting the Nigerian child is a collective responsibility.
Egalitarian Segun O. Akinlabi is an educationist, public analyst and Convener of Egalitarian Team, Oyo State. He writes from Ibadan.
