ISSUE ON THE TABLE Cases of teacher-student relationships are on the increase in schools despite the threat of HIV/Aids mainly contracted through cross-generational sex. We sought the views of students of Lycee Notre dame de Citeaux , a girls school in Kigali, and below is what they shared with us. Olga Umutoni Olga Umutoni I would entirely blame the teacher for getting into a relationship with their students because these are like their own children. Government needs to do more training about cross-generatioal sex, and it’s dangers. Promise Umukundwa Promise Umukundwa Outside class, there is no business between a teacher and his students. In fact it’s good that most schools don’t allow mobile phones because there would be more cases of teacher-student relationship. Parents should train their children how to carry themselves when dealing with teachers. Gloria Iradukunda Gloria Iradukunda Having a relationship with a teacher is the worst thing that can happen to you while at school. It can create an unhealthy environment in class since you are likely to be favoured over other students. This can easily cause tension. Shehzahadi Mugadas Shehzahadi Mugadas Such relationships can damage the reputation of both the teacher and student. If you want respect then you must be professional as a teacher. The only relationship between the two should be strictly academics. But both parties are to blame in case of such a mess. Cristen Uwase Christien Uwase Teachers always preach against cross-generational sex so it would be embarasssing if they got involved in it. If a teacher has an intimate relationship with a student, he should be immediately suspended and all his entitlements suspended. Ange Vivien Nyamuhenda Hirwa Although people rarely talk about it, teacher-student relationships exist all over the globe. But that doesn’t mean it’s good. The only way students will have confidence in their teacher is if he is self-respecting. Murara Isimbi Murara simbi I have no problem if a student and teacher are close as long as it is for academic reasons. If students are close to their teachers, they can easily consult them especially if they find problems withsome subjects. I believe if each of the parties behaved well there would be more harmony. If you have a comment or want the Education Times Open Voice team to visit your school, please send an email to education@newtimes.co.rw
