From policy to practice: How schools can protect girls


Ensuring the safety of girls in school is a paramount concern for parents, educators and policymakers. A safe school environment is essential for fostering academic success, emotional well-being, and overall development. To address this issue effectively, it’s important to implement comprehensive strategies that encompass policies, infrastructure, education and community involvement.

Creating a safe physical environment
Secure campus infrastructure: One of the fundamental aspects of ensuring girls' safety in school is having a secure campus. This includes well-maintained buildings, secure perimeters with fences or walls, and controlled access points with security personnel or surveillance systems. Regular safety drills and emergency response plans should be in place and practiced.

Safe transportation: Providing safe transportation options for girls is crucial. Schools should ensure that buses and other transportation methods are reliable, supervised, and equipped with security features such as GPS tracking. Drivers and attendants should be trained in safety protocols and child protection.

Implementing strong policies and procedures
Anti-harassment policies: Schools must have clear anti-harassment and anti-bullying policies that are strictly enforced. These policies should outline the procedures for reporting incidents, protecting victims, and disciplining perpetrators. Educating students and staff about these policies is essential to creating a respectful and safe environment.

Confidential reporting mechanisms: Establishing confidential reporting mechanisms encourages girls to speak up about any safety concerns they may have. Anonymous tip lines, suggestion boxes, or designated staff members can provide safe channels for reporting harassment or bullying.

Fostering a positive school culture
Gender sensitivity training: Providing gender sensitivity training for teachers, staff, and students can help create an inclusive and respectful school culture. This training should focus on recognizing and addressing gender-based discrimination and fostering empathy and understanding among students.

Empowerment programs: Empowering girls through self-defense classes, leadership programs, and workshops on self-esteem and assertiveness can help them feel more confident and secure. Schools should encourage girls to participate in extracurricular activities that promote teamwork and leadership skills.

Enhancing supervision and support
Adequate supervision: Ensuring adequate supervision in all areas of the school, including classrooms, hallways, playgrounds, and restrooms, is critical for girls' safety. Teachers, staff, and trained volunteers can help monitor these spaces and provide immediate assistance if needed.

Counseling and support services: Providing access to counseling and support services is vital for addressing the emotional and psychological needs of girls. School counselors should be trained to handle issues related to harassment, bullying, and gender-based violence. Creating a supportive environment where girls feel comfortable seeking help is crucial.

Engaging parents and the community
Parent involvement: Engaging parents in school safety initiatives can strengthen efforts to protect girls. Regular communication between schools and parents through meetings, newsletters, and workshops can keep parents informed and involved in safety measures.

Community partnerships: Building partnerships with local law enforcement, healthcare providers, and community organizations can enhance school safety. These partnerships can provide additional resources, support, and expertise in creating a safe environment for girls.

Utilizing technology
Surveillance systems: Installing surveillance cameras in strategic locations can deter potential threats and provide evidence in case of incidents. However, it is important to balance security with privacy concerns, ensuring that surveillance is conducted ethically and transparently.

Safety apps and alerts: Leveraging technology such as safety apps and alert systems can enhance communication and response during emergencies. Schools can use these tools to notify parents and authorities promptly and coordinate responses effectively.

Continuous evaluation and improvement
Regular safety audits: Conducting regular safety audits and assessments can help identify potential risks and areas for improvement. Schools should continuously evaluate their safety measures and update them based on feedback and new developments.

Training and drills: Regular training and drills for students, teachers, and staff are essential for preparedness. These exercises should cover a range of scenarios, including natural disasters, lockdowns, and evacuations, ensuring everyone knows how to respond effectively.

In conclusion - Protecting girls in education
Ensuring the safety of girls in school requires a comprehensive and proactive approach. By creating a secure physical environment, implementing strong policies, fostering a positive school culture, enhancing supervision and support, engaging parents and the community, utilizing technology, and continuously evaluating and improving safety measures, schools can provide a safe and nurturing environment for girls to thrive academically, emotionally, and socially. Prioritizing girls' safety in school is not just a responsibility but a commitment to building a brighter and more equitable future for all students.