Rwebiita Preparatory School in Sheema District installs CCTV Cameras and fire extinguishers.

SHEEMA: In a bid to maintain security and guarantee Learners property protection, Rwebiita Preparatory School in Sheema District installed CCTV cameras and fire extinguishers within the school premises.

Uganda’s ministry of Education and sports through the National Building Review Board (NBRB) requires Schools to install CCTV Cameras and Fire extinguishers to counter the security of Learners and properties in Schools.

Speaking to this reporter Prof. Mesharch W. Katusiimeh, the Director Rwebiita Preparatory School that the installing the CCTV Cameras and fire extinguishers will help them in monitoring the premises, deterring potential threats, and identifying individuals involved in any suspicious activities.

Prof. Mesharch noted that having the fire extinguishers readily available can help in containing small fire outbreaks before they escalate, potentially saving lives and property.

“CCTV cameras help in monitoring the premises, deterring potential threats, and identifying individuals involved in any suspicious activities. This enhances the overall security of the school, students, and staff. Fire extinguishers are essential for fire safety. In case of a fire emergency, having fire extinguishers readily available can help in containing small fires” said Mesharch W. Katusiimeh.

The Sheema Municipality Inspector of Schools Mr. Jonnie Kishate said that installing CCTV cameras and fire extinguishers might be a legal requirement for schools to ensure the safety and security of students and staff.

Jonnie added that having a clear monitoring system in schools can act as deterrents against vandalism, theft, and other forms of misconduct among the individuals within knowing that they are being monitored thus discouraging them from engaging in inappropriate behavior.

It should be noted that the National Building Review Board (NBRB) had earlier tasked the Building Committees and Building Control Officers to ensure that all school buildings within their areas are inspected to ascertain their fire safety compliance levels and issue the certificates of inspection as proof of inspection.

Since 2020, the National Building Review Board (NBRB) has investigated a number of fire incidents, with 52% occurring in commercial buildings, 35% in Schools and 13% in residential buildings, mainly caused by human action (arson-fires deliberately set) and negligence.