Every child has the right to travel to school and return home safely


Dr. Robin Nancy (UNICEF Uganda Photo)

By Dr. Robin Nandy: 

UNICEF is deeply saddened by the recent road accidents that have claimed the lives of school-going children in Uganda, leaving families, schools and communities in mourning.

On behalf of UNICEF, I extend heartfelt condolences to the families, classmates and communities affected. No parent should send a child to school and never see them return home.

These are preventable deaths, and every child lost on Uganda’s roads is one too many.

Every child has the right to travel to school and return home safely. Road safety is a child rights issue, linked to survival, education and a safe environment.

UNICEF commends the Government of Uganda’s efforts to strengthen enforcement of traffic rules and improve safety in and around schools, and the Ministry of Education and Sports’ swift response, including the suspension of all school trips and strengthening new guidelines for school travel.

Schools have been reminded to use only roadworthy, licensed vehicles driven by qualified, well-rested drivers, conduct proper risk assessments and maintain adequate teacher supervision throughout every journey. Even so, more urgent action is needed to reduce speeding near schools, provide safe crossings and walking paths, and strengthen emergency care.

Globally, road traffic injuries are the leading cause of death for children and adolescents aged 5 to 19, with low- and middle-income countries carrying the greatest burden. Lower speeds save lives: a child hit at 30 kilometers per hour has a much better chance of survival than one hit at 50.

The Author is the UNICEF Representative in Uganda. 

Dr. Nandy issued this statement in the wake of the recent road accidents that have claimed the lives of school-going children.




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