By Rosemary Etim Bassey
Chrisland Schools has strengthened its child protection measures by providing pupils with different channels to report bullying, abuse and other safety concerns.
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The school announced the measures during a press conference in Idimu, Lagos, where its officials explained how learners could seek help without fear of being identified or facing retaliation.
Kemi Fajemirokun, the school’s Head of Risk, Compliance, Safeguarding and Child Protection, said some children were reluctant to report bullying because they feared being labelled “snitches” or targeted by those they reported.
She said the school had introduced confidential reporting options, including designated safeguarding officers and boxes where pupils could submit written complaints.
Abimbola Taylor, a safeguarding officer at Chrisland School, Opebi, Ikeja, said the reporting boxes were intended to help children who found it difficult to speak directly to an adult.
She added that reports could be handled in ways that protected the identities of pupils who raised concerns.
Taylor urged learners to report incidents promptly, regardless of how minor they might appear, so that appropriate action could be taken.
Fajemirokun said the school’s approach involved pupils, parents, teaching staff and non-teaching staff working together to maintain a safe learning environment.
She added that school activities were subjected to risk assessments before approval to identify possible dangers and prevent avoidable incidents.
Olusegun Ogunsola, the school’s Executive Head of School (Academics), said staff members received training in safeguarding, child protection and risk management.
He said the school also used assemblies, workshops and other activities to educate learners about safety. According to him, the second week of every term is dedicated to safeguarding awareness, with external experts invited to speak to pupils.
Olubunmi Dosunmu, Principal of Chrisland College, Idimu, said safeguarding was particularly important in boarding schools, where students require supervision and protection throughout the day and night.
The school said its safeguarding measures covered its campuses in Ikeja, Idimu, Festac and Victoria Island.
It urged members of the school community to take responsibility for reporting concerns and protecting children from harm. Pupils experiencing bullying or abuse are encouraged to seek help from a trusted adult or the school’s designated safeguarding officer.
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