The Guinean authorities have initiated operations to combat school absenteeism in Conakry, with the OPROJEM and other security services conducting patrols in streets and neighborhoods to apprehend students who skip classes during school hours. These operations also target parents accused of failing to ensure their children's regular attendance. Dr. Cé Avis Gamy, special prosecutor near the Conakry Children's Court, discussed the operations' impact, reasons, and potential sanctions against students and parents.
According to Dr. Cé Avis Gamy, multiple procedures have been launched against parents, with nearly 20 parents appearing in court and many more cases being processed. The special prosecutor praised the efforts of the OPROJEM and the Central Service in implementing a system that allows for swift treatment of cases. He emphasized that the goal is to have zero children in the streets during school hours and zero students on social media during this time.
The launch of these operations was prompted by a concerning trend of children being present in the streets during school hours. Dr. Cé Avis Gamy stated that this behavior has shocked public sentiment and morality, prompting the authorities to act under Article 47 of the Code of Criminal Procedure. He emphasized that the objective is clear: to ensure students attend classes regularly and adhere to school schedules.
Does skipping school directly expose a student to judicial sanctions? Dr. Cé Avis Gamy explained that this must be examined in light of parental obligations, guardianship rules, and school regulations. He cited Article 956 of the Penal Code and Article 888 of the Child Code, which impose obligations on parents, tutors, and guardians to supervise children.
Students found skipping school may face sanctions, including community service. The judge may order measures such as cleaning the Prime Minister's office, RTG premises, or their own school. Sanctions can also target parents and school administrators, who must assume their responsibilities. Dr. Cé Avis Gamy stressed that parents have a duty to ensure their children attend school regularly and arrive on time.
Parents are also in the spotlight, with Dr. Cé Avis Gamy emphasizing that parental supervision is crucial in combating school absenteeism. He cited Article 956 of the Penal Code and Article 888 of the Child Code, which impose obligations on parents to ensure their children's regular attendance. Parents who fail to meet these obligations risk facing sanctions.
In conclusion, Dr. Cé Avis Gamy urged parents and school administrators to take full responsibility for children's education and supervision. He emphasized that children represent Guinea's future and that collective action is necessary to address the issue of school absenteeism. The authorities will continue to work to ensure students attend classes regularly and adhere to school schedules.
Key points
- Several parents have already been prosecuted and judged for their children's school absenteeism.
