Police engage students on road safety, bullying, discipline

The Guyana Police Force (GPF) has continued its school outreach programme, with ranks from Regions One (Barima-Waini), Three (Essequibo Islands-West Demerara) and Four (Demerara-Mahaica) engaging students on safety, discipline, responsible decision-making and other issues affecting young people.
On Friday, ranks from Regional Division 4 ‘A’ conducted an interactive educational lecture at Sophia Primary School for students from Grades Four to Six.
The students were sensitised on the importance of education, substance abuse, road safety, bullying and cyberbullying, personal safety, sexual offences, simple larceny, environmental cleanliness and the responsible use of the internet and social media.

Particular emphasis was placed on remaining focused on education, avoiding harmful substances, exercising caution when approached by strangers and reporting bullying or inappropriate behaviour to trusted adults. The students were also encouraged to use technology as a positive tool for learning.
The engagement formed part of the Police Force’s efforts to promote safety, discipline, education and positive youth development.
A day earlier, on Thursday, ranks from Regional Police Division Three conducted an educational outreach with Grade Six students of Parfaite Harmonie Primary School on the West Bank Demerara.
The session addressed road safety, curb drills, the Five Cs, restrictions on children using electric bikes, domestic abuse, bullying, discipline and respect for parents and teachers.
The ranks also encouraged the students to view police officers as trusted persons who are available to guide, assist and protect them.
Approximately 170 students and nine teachers participated in the session, which was well received. Students and teachers expressed appreciation for the engagement and welcomed similar initiatives in the future.
On Wednesday, ranks from Regional Police Division Three also conducted road safety sessions at Little Angels Academy and Kwall Primary School at Canal No. 2, West Bank Demerara. Students were taught about using pedestrian crossings, obeying traffic lights and signs, looking both ways before crossing roads, avoiding playing on roadways, staying clear of vehicles and wearing seat belts. The importance of using appropriate safety equipment when riding bicycles was also emphasised. The interactive sessions formed part of the Police Force’s ongoing efforts to promote road safety awareness among young people.
Meanwhile, ranks from the Mabaruma Police Station visited the Wauna Nursery School on Tuesday, as part of Regional Division One’s efforts to promote youth development and strengthen Police-Community relations.
The ranks interacted with the children in an age-appropriate manner, focusing on personal safety, road safety and making responsible choices.
The children were encouraged to listen to their parents and teachers, follow safety instructions and seek assistance from a trusted adult whenever they feel unsafe.
The visit also provided an opportunity for the children to become familiar with police officers and understand their role in protecting and assisting members of the community.