As schools prepare to close for the end-of-year holidays, Rwanda’s law enforcement has issued a call for collective responsibility to ensure the safe travel of students returning home. The appeal was directed to school administrators, transport operators, drivers, parents, and the wider community.
The academic calendar indicates that boarding pupils in both primary and secondary institutions will be heading home between late June and early July. Authorities stressed that this period requires extra caution to guarantee smooth and secure journeys.
Schools Urged to Facilitate Timely Student Departure
Senior Superintendent of Police Emmanuel Kayigi, spokesperson for the Traffic and Road Safety Department, called on school leaders to take the lead in supporting safe travel.
He said: “School leaders should issue students’ report cards early so that they leave school in time, get transport early, and arrive home without delays,”
He also encouraged schools to monitor students as they leave school premises while wearing their uniforms, noting that uniforms make it easier for students to access public transport and receive assistance if needed.
He said: “We request schools to make sure that students are putting on uniforms and follow up on their movements after they leave school because the uniform helps them get assistance and easily find transport.”
Drivers and Transport Operators Encouraged to Support Students
Kayigi appealed to drivers, transport operators, and fellow passengers to play an active role in ensuring students travel safely during the holiday period.
He said: “We encourage all transport operators and other travelers to help students during their movements so they can reach their families safely,” he said.
The police emphasized that cooperation among all road users can help reduce risks and ensure students arrive home without incident.
Students Advised to Avoid Drugs and Criminal Activities
As students begin their holidays, the police spokesperson reminded them to use the break productively by spending time with their families, helping their parents with household responsibilities, and revising their schoolwork.
He also cautioned students against associating with groups that could influence them to engage in drug abuse, crime, or other harmful behaviors.
He said: “Do not involve yourselves in drug abuse because it puts your lives at risk. Report anyone involved in using, transporting, or selling illegal drugs,”
Parents Asked to Protect Children Throughout the Holidays
The police concluded by calling on parents and guardians to closely monitor their children during the long school break and shield them from negative influences.
Authorities stressed that ensuring children’s safety and well-being during the holidays is a shared responsibility requiring cooperation between families, schools, transport providers, and the wider community.
