Vacation: Knowledge Fountain School proprietress cautions against child abuse

Audu Otubi Jos.

As the primary and secondary schools across the country is rounding off the session and to commence on long vacation, the proprietress of Knowledge Fountain School, Mrs Philipa Edo has warned against child molestation, sexual abuse and other acts against children.

The proprietress of the school, which is located along Old Oron Road, in Uyo the Akwa Ibom State capital sounded the note of caution when she interacted with newsmen with respect to her school’s 3rd year anniversary and graduation ceremony coming up tomorrow, 24th July, 2025.

She however proffered measures to check child abuse and also called on the parents, guardian and other care givers to be vigilant and monitor the children carefully.

“As we approach the long holiday season, it is crucial to address a topic of utmost importance, which is the protection of our children from the dangers of pedophilia. Ensuring the safety and well-being of our children is a responsibility we all share.

“This notice aims to educate you about pedophilia, the risks it poses and practical steps you can take to protect your children. Pedophilia is a psychiatric disorder where an adult or older adolescent experiences a primary or exclusive sexual attraction toward children.

“It is vital to understand that children are vulnerable and require our utmost care and vigilance to keep them safe from such dangers.

Who is a Child?
A child is anyone under 18 years.

“Child molestation, also known as child sexual abuse, involves various indecent sexual activities between an adult and a child. These can include rape, which is any form of penetrative or non-penetrative sexual intercourse with a child.

“Making a child watch Pornography, exposing genitals to children and indecent touching and fondling are all inappropriate,” she said.

Shockingly, she revealed, over 95% of sexually abused children are abused by someone known to them or their family, which can include family members, neighbours and co-tenants,
friends and acquaintances,
schoolmates and classmates.

Others, according to her, include teachers and coaches, religious leaders,
caregivers and domestic staff,security personnel and drivers, among others.

On the protective measures to child abuse, she said: “To protect your children from pedophilia, talk to your children about inappropriate behaviour and boundaries, encourage open communication and assure your children that they can come to you with any concerns.

“Monitor your child’s interactions with others, including family members and friends, and beware of your child’s online activities and educate them about internet safety.

“Also establish clear rules about physical boundaries and privacy, pay attention to changes in your child’s behaviour, such as anxiety, withdrawal or fear of certain individuals.

“And take note if your child suddenly refuses to be alone with someone or avoids certain places,” she added.

Meanwhile, she pointed out that besides the quality of teaching and a conducive learning environment, the administration of Knowledge Fountain School is very serious with the children’s moral upbringing, and so they endeavour to instill good morals, behaviour and discipline in the children.