Safe and Sanitary School Environments

Education institutions shall foster and maintain a social climate and physical environment that will promote health, well-being, non-violence and safety in working and learning.

No STIGMA NO DISCRIMINATION NO VIOLENCE

 Creating an Environment Free of Stigma, Discrimination and Violence

A. Preventing Stigma and Discrimination

• Education institutions MUST adhere to a Code of Conduct
• The Code MUST make it clear that stigmatisation or discrimination shall not be tolerated against persons living with HIV, associated with someone living with HIV, or a person perceived as living with HIV.
•  A person who discriminates will be sanctioned.

B. Preventing abuse at school or work

• The Code of Conduct MUST clearly identify expectations concerning staff/students.
• The must guided by Mutual respect and trust; Adherence to the principles of the international Convention on the Rights of the Child

C. Non-Violence

•  Administrators and teachers MUST endeavor to maintain a violence-free environment. Physical or verbal abuse of others within the institution must not be tolerated.

 Creating a hygienic environment

A. Universal Precautions

•  Administrators, other employees and students MUST follow universal precautions to avoid accidental 
•  exposure to blood or high-risk body fluids.
•  The institution MUST also have a post-exposure prophylaxis (PEP) procedure in place, including counselling and guidance for the employee or student and access to anti-retrovirals (ARVs).

B. First Aid

• First Aid kits MUST be available for emergency use at all places of employment.
• Physical education instructors and technical/ vocational education teachers, MUST complete first aid and injury prevention course.

C. Management of Sharp Instruments

• Use of sharp instruments for work MUST be carefully monitored and controlled.
• Unauthorised use of sharp instruments MUST NOTbe allowed.

D. Employees and Students with open wounds

•  Bleeding or discharging wounds MUST be kept covered.
•  If wound cannot be covered, stay away from the institution or get doctor to certificate the risk level.

 Creating a Sanitary and Safe Environment

•  Schools, Departments of Education, Regional Democratic Councils, and MoE are responsible for creating a safe and sanitary environment in which:

                      a. No Smoking allowed

                      b. No drug and alcohol abuse permitted

                      c. Sanitary facilities and clean water are provided

                      d. Asbestos is not used in school buildings

                      e. Fire fighting equipment is provided

                      f. Facilities are provided for disadvantaged and special needs students.