School Safety Factors: A Necessary Condition for Job Commitment of Secondary School Teachers in Nigeria

Abstract

School safety is a critical factor for the job commitment of secondary school teachers in Nigeria. This study examines the various aspects of school safety and their impact on teachers' job satisfaction and commitment. The study focuses on physical school safety, psychosocial school safety, school transportation safety, background verification checks of staff, and the implementation of a visitor management system. The paper highlights the importance of physical school safety measures, including building design, emergency planning, security technology, personnel, communication, maintenance, and student supervision. It emphasizes the need for schools to create a supportive and inclusive environment that promotes positive mental health and addresses social and emotional issues, thereby ensuring psychosocial school safety. The study also discusses the significance of school transportation safety, including vehicle design, driver training, and the implementation of laws and regulations. Furthermore, the paper emphasizes the importance of conducting background verification checks for staff to prevent incidents involving students. It explores the role of a visitor management system in enhancing school safety by controlling and monitoring visitor access. The study identifies overcrowding, inadequate security measures, poverty, substance abuse, inadequate teacher training, corruption, and political instability as key problems contributing to poor school safety in Nigerian secondary schools. In conclusion, the study argues that ensuring school safety is crucial for the job commitment of secondary school teachers in Nigeria. It recommends implementing adequate security measures, addressing student behavior management, providing teacher support and professional development opportunities, and promoting a culture of safety in schools. By addressing these challenges, the government can create a safer and more supportive working environment for teachers, leading to improved outcomes for students and the education system as a whole.