The National Patriotic Students Association (Napsa), has warned students to stay away from beach picnics in the wake of a tragic incident that claimed the life of a student at the Laybato Beach, Fajara. The warning comes on the heels of preparations for the annual inter-house athletic competition by more schools.

Napsa's assistant public relations officer (PRO), Ya Marie Janneh, told the Daily Observer that the national student body wants to put an end to what she described as a "terrible disaster".

Ms Janneh stressed Napsa's concern with the incident, noting that it must not go unchecked as students continue to endanger their own lives.

As part of the measures to be taken, Napsa's assistant spokesperson said the association will sensitise the students on the risks involved in beach picnics.

In her opinion, students should concentrate on their studies instead of organising extravagant beach parties, which derail their academic pursuit and put their dreams at risk.

However, she emphasised that to deal with the menace requires collective efforts. "I think this is a serious issue that we all need to address at home, at school and at community level, and throughout the country," she said.

Ms Janneh used the opportunity to call on school principals, parents, and the Department of State for Basic and Secondary Education to collaborate with Napsa to address the problem.

"On behalf of Napsa, I wish to extend our condolences to families who lost their children at the beach in the past years, including the Ndow family of Bakau", she concluded.