What can be done to guard students against poisoning?

Mar 08, 2011

IN Masaka, a 23-year-old woman is suspected of killing her two step-children with poisoned food after picking them up from school. It is alleged that Justine Namutebi, a resident of Mbiriizi trading centre in Lwengo district, disappeared after poisoning Joanita Nannyunja, 8; and Gerald Ssali, 6, to

IN Masaka, a 23-year-old woman is suspected of killing her two step-children with poisoned food after picking them up from school. It is alleged that Justine Namutebi, a resident of Mbiriizi trading centre in Lwengo district, disappeared after poisoning Joanita Nannyunja, 8; and Gerald Ssali, 6, to death last Monday.

The children were from Luzinga Primary School in Buyinja village Kyannamukaaka sub-county. Below are some reactions to this story.

Sylvia Babirye, parent
All people authorised to visit children should be given visitors’ cards. In case a parent brings in food, they should be made to taste it before it is given to the child.

Margaret Kasirye, a parent
It is difficult to detect whether food is poisoned or not. The only way schools can protect children is to enforce rules that restrict parents from bringing food into the schools.

Phiona Mbabazi, a student, Old Kampala Secondary School
All food coming into the school should be inspected. Sometimes the food is not poisoned but it is unhealthy and can cause harm.

Julius Kitayimbwa, a student, Old Kampala Secondary School

Schools should ensure the canteens are clean and well stocked. If the canteens are good, the students will not seek food from outsiders.

Asaf Bananura, a teacher, Old Kampala Secondary School
The African thinking that a child is raised by an entire community should stop. Schools should restrict visitations to only the biological parents.

Aida Nakiwala, a teacher, Sir Apollo Kaggwa Primary School

Schools should not allow children to get out because some people can use that opportunity to harm them. They should also encourage packed snacks

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