UBEC Strengthens Environmental, Social Safeguarding Measures in Schools 

Funmi Ogundare 

The Universal Basic Education Commission (UBEC) has introduced Environmental and Social Safeguarding (ESS) measures across educational institutions under its jurisdiction. The State Universal Basic Education Boards (SUBEBs) across Nigeria are implementing these initiatives at the state level. 

At the national level, UBEC has constituted a nine-member team from various departments under the Office of the Deputy Executive Secretary (technical) to oversee the programme’s implementation.

The National Coordinator for Environmental and Social Safeguarding in Schools, Mrs. Stella Blaize, highlighted in a statement that the commission engaged a coordinating consultant in August 2023, with full activities commencing in February 2024.

According to her, the commission has undertaken several key activities, including verification exercises, training sessions on the principles of ESS, and state-level environmental and social safeguard verification visits. Additionally, high-level focus meetings have been held for management teams to ensure effective oversight and implementation.

Blaize expressed satisfaction with the progress made so far, noting that the safeguarding measures have significantly improved the safety and well-being of learners and the school environment. 

She explained that the primary objective of the ESS measures is to ensure the protection of the environment and the social well-being of students and staff in the education sector. This involves fostering sustainable practices, meeting health and safety standards, and positively impacting local communities.

She also highlighted the increased awareness and willingness among learners to speak out, aiding efforts to reduce social vices and environmental hazards in schools.

The coordinator revealed that the recently concluded high-level focus meeting with management teams from all 36 states and the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) marks a significant step forward in enforcing ESS measures in public schools.