In a gathering convened by the Minister of Education, Athena Michaelidou, key decisions were made to enhance existing measures aimed at addressing violence in schools.
Following a thorough analysis of all relevant data, specific and immediately applicable measures were determined. The decisions include:
- Enhanced Security Measures for High-Risk Schools: Rigorous inspections will be conducted in schools identified as high-risk, with increased surveillance and targeted measures. Depending on developments, these measures may be extended to other schools.
- Review of Recruitment and Working Conditions for Security Personnel: The process of hiring and the terms of employment for security personnel will undergo a comprehensive review.
- Expansion of High-Tech Surveillance Systems: In high-risk schools, the high-tech camera system, currently implemented on a pilot basis in Limassol schools, will be expanded following consultation with the Commissioner for Personal Data Protection. Depending on developments, this system may be applied to other schools.
- Upgrading School Lighting Systems During Dark Hours: The lighting systems in schools will be upgraded to ensure better visibility during the dark hours.
- Opening School Spaces for Targeted Activities During Non-Working Hours: School premises will be made available for targeted actions and activities during non-working hours.
- Implementation of Alternative Prevention Programs: Alternative programs for preventing and addressing violence and delinquency will be introduced in schools.
- Initiating Discussions on the Use of Mobile Phones Within School Premises: A discussion will be initiated regarding the use of mobile phones within school units.
In a statement, the Ministry of Education highlighted that the issue will remain a top priority, and all measures will undergo systematic monitoring to achieve the common goal of addressing the phenomenon.
It is acknowledged that the problem cannot be immediately or drastically solved due to its nature; therefore, the measures, most of which are already in place, primarily focus on prevention and addressing the issue.
