Schools Closure

A prestigious school has asked the parents should the school resume classes or remain closed till after Eid ul Azha holidays or even after till Waziristan operation is over. The parents are in a real fix to answer it. In my considered opinion the schools should reopen forthwith but also must take appropriate measures and precautions to thwart any untoward incident. If not, (one) the precious time of the students would be lost affecting their studies adversely, and (two) the terrorists would achieve their aim of disrupting the normal life in the country. Talking of precautions, it must be kept in view that while the suicidal attacks and blasts can not be ruled out altogether, the extremists are more likely to take students – especially the young ones - as hostages to bargain with the government. Following are, therefore, suggested:-

1.                  Schools buses could be the most vulnerable targets. Therefore :-

a.       As far as possible the parents should themselves transport the children to and from schools. 

b.      Schools buses, where inevitable, should have onboard security guards, preferably ex-commandos.

c.       A Security Vehicle with armed guards must follow the school bus.  Please note, it must follow and not lead.

2.                  Pick and drop of the children should a little away from the school gates to avoid congestion there.

3.                  School leaving timings of different classes could be staggered for similar reason.

4.                  Highly trained armed Security personnel (preferably sharp shooters with sniper rifles) be posted at high places (roofs, trees, towers etc.) from where they can cover the entire school premises during school hours.

5.                  Students MUST be drilled and practised in combating terrorist attacks. Services of professionals should be obtained for imparting such training. Periodic Emergency Drills must be held regularly.

6.                  Emergency  plans be worked out for different contingencies. Emergency EXITS be arranged, scaling of rear walls with rope ladders etc. be practised.

7.                  All – staff and students – must be trained in First Aid, Life Support Measures and other such activities.

Above all, every one must exuberate effusively the resolve and determination to fight the extremists and defeat their nefarious designs.

Col. Riaz Jafri (Retd)