Preparations are in full swing across Bahrain to ensure a safe, clean and welcoming start to the new academic year as teachers returned to schools today, with students set to follow on Wednesday.
Authorities have stepped up security, traffic safety and cleanliness measures around educational institutions, as part of a nationwide plan involving multiple ministries and agencies.
The Interior Ministry announced yesterday that the General Directorate of Traffic has organised special training and refresher courses for Community Service Police officers and school guards in both government and private institutions.
“These courses are part of an integrated plan in collaboration with the Education Ministry to provide a safe traffic environment around schools,” the ministry said in a statement.
The programmes focused on securing school surroundings, enhancing communication skills with students and parents, and training participants in managing traffic flows at school gates.
Measures also aim to reduce violations by parents dropping off their children.
The training stressed the importance of effective co-ordination and role distribution to ensure the safe crossing of students, proper vehicle parking without obstructing traffic, and adherence to designated pick-up and drop-off areas – particularly for school buses.
The General Directorate of Traffic further urged parents and drivers to co-operate with Community Service Police officers and school guards, and to follow their instructions “to safeguard students’ safety and ensure smooth traffic flow in busy school zones”.
The ministry’s general directorate for guards has also conducted inspections to several government schools to raise awareness on public safety.
Meanwhile, cleaning companies Urbaser Bahrain and Gulf City Cleaning Company, under the supervision of the Municipalities Affairs and Agriculture Ministry, have completed comprehensive cleaning of areas around schools.
The Works Ministry has also carried out repairs and maintenance in classrooms and all other facilities.
Marking the start of the new academic year, Education Minister Dr Mohammed Mubarak Juma delivered a heartfelt welcome address to students as the ministry relaunched its website.
“My sons and daughters, students in all schools, the school year is not long in terms of time – nine months are but the blink of an eye in the journey of life,” he said in his message.
“There is a saying that the best thing about education is that no one can prevent you from it. Therefore, the journey of education in school, university and beyond remains very short compared to the journey of education in life.”
He urged students to embrace the coming months with energy and passion.
“Let us live the moments of this school year and be excited about everything we will experience in it – from education, assessment, activities, events to unforgettable memories. The days will pass very quickly.”
Dr Juma also stressed the ministry’s support and commitment to creating an inspiring learning environment.
“The Education Ministry affirms its support for you and its constant endeavour to create a stimulating educational environment that enhances your skills, supports your ambitions, fosters the educational values rooted in our national identity, and enables you to acquire the knowledge and experiences that prepare you for a promising future in the service of the nation,” he added.
The minister concluded his address with a warm wish to all students.
“All my wishes to you for an academic year full of optimism, success and fulfilment.”
mohammed@gdnmedia.bh
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