School owners advised to install modern fire-fighting equipment
SCHOOL owners in Kagera region have been advised to install modern fire-fighting equipment to prevent their schools from fire tragedies and ensure the safety of students.
Kagera Regional Commissioner (RC), Mr Albert Chalamila, made the call following recent fire accidents that destroyed some dormitories in the country resulting in the loss of lives and properties.
“We recently heard of fire accidents that destroyed some dormitories in the country resulting in the loss of lives and properties. So, we think school owners have to learn and install modern fire-fighting equipment for emergency,” he said.
On September 13th, 2020 at least 10 students from Byamungu Islamic secondary school, in Kyerwa district in Kagera region were confirmed to have died after fire gutted their dormitory where they were sleeping. Seven others sustained injuries.
Reports said fire broke out on the building at around 2 a.m. while the students were asleep. The building was also used as a dormitory.
On July 31st, 2020 fire also gutted a story building at Kwauso secondary school, in Bukoba DC at around 9.00 p.m as the students were studying in classes. However, there were no casualties.
The Catholic church-owned secondary school was established in 2011 and has a total of 542 students (both boys and girls) in Forms One-Four.
Following the fire accidents, Prime Minister, Mr Kassim Majaliwa, directed Regional Commissioners in the country to form a special probe team committee to establish the electrical installation standard at schools in their respective areas.
“The committee comprising experts from TEMESA should make investigation to know exactly the standard of electrical installation at the school. This will minimize the increasing fire outbreak incidents in the schools countrywide,” he said.
Mr Majaliwa directed officials to ensure that each school is equipped with fire extinguishers, sand and other essential equipment needed in firefighting. He also tasked the Fire and Rescue Force to conduct regular training sessions to students on firefighting techniques.
The Premier assured religious institutions of the government support while acknowledging the great contribution made by religious institutions in providing essential social services including health and education.
