I am Comrade Samson Musa Maijama’a, a teacher by profession, and I speak today not out of defiance, but out of deep concern and responsibility.
I firmly stand against the practice of removing students from their classrooms—sometimes forcing them to trek long distances and stand under harsh weather conditions—solely to line up and welcome royal fathers, dignitaries, or visiting personalities. While respect for leadership, culture, and tradition is important, it must never override the fundamental duty we owe to our children: their safety, health, dignity, and right to learn.
Our students are not ornaments for public ceremonies. They are young minds entrusted to us by parents and guardians who expect that, once in school, their children will be protected and guided in a safe learning environment. Subjecting them to unnecessary risks such as road accidents, physical exhaustion, dehydration, or exposure to harsh conditions for the sake of protocol is not in their best interest and does not reflect the true values of education.
The classroom is where education flourishes. Time meant for learning should not be sacrificed for activities that do not contribute to a child’s academic or personal development. When learning time is disrupted, the consequences are felt not only by the students but by the future of our society as a whole.
Honouring visitors and leaders can be done in dignified, organized, and responsible ways that do not endanger students or interrupt their education. A society that truly values progress must place education first, ensuring that schools remain safe spaces dedicated to learning, growth, and character building.
As educators, our voices must reflect our commitment to the children we serve. Protecting their welfare is not an act of disrespect to authority; it is an act of responsibility, conscience, and genuine love for education.
Let us choose practices that uphold the dignity of our students, respect the purpose of schooling, and demonstrate that education is not just a slogan—but a priority.
Comrade Samson Musa Maijama’a.
