SCHOOL SAFETY AND SECURITY IN HARGEISA Author AHMED ABDULLAHI NUUR

RESEARCH OBJECTIVE: The overall aim of the study is to identify ways and means to improve school safety and security effectiveness in Hargeisa, Somaliland. RESEARCH OVERALL AIM: This research primarily used a qualitative approach. The research respondents were chosen from head teachers, community education committees and watchmen from public and private schools. Special consideration was given to gender and school level - both secondary and primary schools.

RESEARCH FINDINGS: The study shows that there are no security and safety measures in our schools and 95% of the schools interviewed do not have the knowledge and capacity to minimize risk factors that can create hazards and disaster in our schools. The risk will be very high to our schools, since there are no preparations and measures to reduce these risks. The study also found that there are no risk assessments and preparations in relation to harmful hazards to the students and teachers. Participants’ level of understanding of school safety and security were different but the majority of the respondents agreed to work on the issues and create coordination and collaboration with other government agencies and line ministry.