12 Schools Out of 286 are Fire Safety Certified

Only 12 out of the country’s 286 schools have obtained their Fire Certificate, according to Vice-Prime Minister and Education Minister Leela Devi Dookun-Luchoomun, who revealed this information in response to a question by Deputy Mahend Gungapersad in Parliament.

Gungapersad pointed out that the Mauritius Fire Rescue Service had informed the Education Ministry in 2017 of the need to take action on fire safety certifications.

However, only 12 schools have obtained the necessary certification, leaving 274 schools without it.

In response, Dookun-Luchoomun stated that the process is ongoing, and that 77 schools have already conducted fire drills. She predicted that all schools will have completed their fire drills by the end of August.

The Education Minister also emphasized that all schools have been equipped with safety signage and fire extinguishers, and that agents of health and safety are working at the ministry to ensure compliance with regulations.

Gungapersad criticized the situation, pointing out that many schools are not complying with Article 75 of the 2005 Labour Act on Occupational Health and Safety. He highlighted the potential risks to students, teachers, and staff.

Dookun-Luchoomun responded by citing examples of schools that have recently obtained their fire certificates, including RTI, where Gungapersad himself was once the rector.

The Education Minister expressed confidence that the process will continue to progress and that all schools will eventually meet the required standards.

In summary, while some progress has been made in obtaining fire safety certifications for schools, there is still much work to be done to ensure compliance with regulations and ensure the safety of students, teachers, and staff.

Source: Le Mauricien