Govt to roll out multi-pronged response to address increasing school violence

Violence in schools has reached alarming levels, with incidents recorded in 353 schools nationwide, Region Four accounting for the largest share at 41 per cent of reported cases. Regions Six, Three, Five, and Ten follow, with President Dr Irfaan Ali pointing to rising gang activity, increased substance use, and cyberbullying as the key drivers.

Cyberbullying has emerged as a particular flashpoint, with text messages and social media posts regularly sparking confrontations that spill beyond school compounds.

To address this, President Ali said the government is now launching a public consultation on cyberbullying and social media, responding to mounting reports from teachers and parents about the growing toll on students.

On the ground, agencies are being better coordinated, with more counselling services, a standardised referral system, and a scholars program targeting at-risk youth. Security cameras and bag scanners are being installed at high-risk schools, and a confidential student reporting system is in the works.

In the longer term, AI is being explored. “AI is important in helping us to address predictable behaviour and behavioural patterns so we can be more proactive, have greater parental guidance and community involvement in children’s life with the involvement of the church, the mosque, the temples and reforming our policies,” the president told reporters during a news conference on Friday at the Office of the President.

The president also flagged the declining number of male teachers in the system as a contributing challenge, calling for greater support structures for female teachers who make up the majority of the workforce. (DPI)