Investigation of administrative Strategies for safeguarding Students against Child-abuse in Senior Secondary School in Sokoto State
*1Faruk Usman Binji, 2Yahaya Ibrahim and 3Musa muhammad Usman
*1&2Department of Educational Management, Faculty of Education, Sokoto State University, Sokoto State, Nigeria
3Department of Educational Foundations, Faculty of Education, Sokoto State University, Sokoto State, Nigeria
Abstract
Child abuse poses a serious threat to the safety, well-being, and academic development of students in secondary schools. This study investigates administrative strategies for safeguarding students against child abuse in secondary schools in Sokoto State, Nigeria. The study adopts a descriptive survey research design, targeting school principals, vice-principals, and teachers. A sample of 319 respondents was used as sample of the study. Data were collected using a structured questionnaire and analyzed with descriptive statistics such as frequency count and percentage. The study found that administrative strategies such as the enforcement of child-protection policies, regular supervision, staff training on child rights, guidance and counseling services, and collaboration with parents and relevant agencies are effective administrative strategies for safeguarding students against child abuse in Sokoto State. However, challenges including inadequate training, limited resources, and low awareness hinder effective implementation. The study concludes that strong administrative commitment and effective policy implementation are essential for ensuring a safe school environment. It recommends continuous capacity-building for school administrators and improved collaboration with stakeholders to enhance the protection of students against child abuse in secondary schools in Sokoto State.
Keywords
Investigation, Administrative strategies, Child abuse, Safeguarding, Secondary schools
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