A meeting was convened at the Ministry’s headquarters to proactively address concerns over student behaviour in certain secondary schools, with particular focus on conduct during dismissal times. The meeting held on 24th February brought together senior officials, including the Minister for Education and Human Resource Development, the Acting Commissioner of Police, Mr. Godfrey Hermitte,Principal Secretaries, Director Generals and senior representatives to deliberate on pressing issues of discipline and safety.
It was noted that eleven schools currently require police presence due to disruptive and suspended students returning to intimidate peers and staff, with juvenile court involvement proposed as a solution for persistent anti-social behaviour.The importance of community policing was underscored, with officers already visiting schools and supporting the Ministry. It was agreed that proper communication channels and firm police commitment are essential, alongside collaboration with public relations teams to design educational programmes that increase police visibility, provide talks, and equip students with life skills, thereby fostering a safe and conducive learning environment.
The meeting further stressed the importance of public communication, including media interviews, to promote the message of safe school environments and the role of community policing patrols.
Following the meeting, the Minister and Acting Commissioner of Police, Mr. Hermitte,were interviewed by the media to explain these proactive measures in greater detail and to reassure the public of the Ministry’s and police’s joint commitment to safeguarding schools.
