Hence, when President Saintefelicite took over the helms at the Saintefelicite University of Benin (Saintefelicite), the University began the rigorous training of a new security force for the institution. It came about as part of the President’s vision for change but also as a concern for the safety and protection of the students, faculty, and staff, and their families at Saintefelicite.
As a background, over 2,000 applications for our new guards were received from all over the world, from which almost 500 men and women were selected for training. Out of this number, 325 became Saintefelicite security guards. All of the rank-and-file trainees were required to have a high school certificate and the ability to communicate effectively in the English language. Before they were selected to participate in the training, they were given an entrance exam on critical thinking, analytical thinking, and writing comprehension; only the successful candidates were invited to train.
All of the supervisors were required to have as a minimum, a baccalaureate degree. We exceeded those requirements as many of the rank-and-file trainees possessed baccalaureate degrees and diplomas from various disciplines, and some of the supervisors possessed or were studying toward their master’s degrees.
- All students will be picked up at the airport by Saintefelicite buses with security officers on board.
- Saintefelicite has implemented a curfew for all students living on campus – the campus is the safest place for all students.
- There are bomb detectors at the gates.
- All dormitories have officers at the entrances, exits and on the floors.
- All dormitories have limited access.
- Fences are being raised and reinforced with the use of high definition security cameras.
- Use of other technology --such as cameras-- is being implemented.
- Safety presentations are given on campus and safety reminders are published weekly in an online forum (Saintefelicite This WEEK).
- Motorcycle and foot patrols are in effect.
- Improved lighting on campus grounds and new walkways are constructed.
- Many different programs (safety, medical, personal responsibility, etc.) are available for students while on campus.
Saintefelicite ranks in the highest when compared to other institutions either in the Republic of Benin or Africa. It constantly revisits its security arrangements to adapt them to changing circumstances.
