GEORGETOWN, Guyana: Searching for new ways to battle increased violence in public schools, Guyana’s Minister of Education, Shaik Baksh has announced a plan of action that includes a ban on cellular phones, increased sporting activity and the placement of school welfare officers.

The new initiatives have won approval from the Guyana Teachers Union (GTU), which has complained bitterly about security arrangements at public schools after some of the over 7,000 teachers it represents have been subjected to abuse by irate parents and other disruptive elements.

The upsurge of violent attacks both on teachers and students by perpetrators in and out of the school
system has become of grave concern to the Ministry. Within the last month there have been at least five attacks in schools, with a gun being used in one instance.

GTU President, Colwyn King said that, while a ban on the use of cellular phones might spark controversy, it is a well-known fact that the devices are known to be equally as distractive as they are helpful.

He added that phones that are fitted with “Bluetooth” technology and internet access can allow the transfer of pictures, and foster the spread of pornography.

“Parents may argue that cellular phones are helpful in cases of emergencies and I agree. But if the school prohibits the use of cellular phone and parents are opposed, then they should take their children to maybe a private school where the phones might be permitted. It is time for action,” King said.

He noted that the issue of safety within schools is much wider than a few measures often implemented after a problem has developed. King called for there to be consultations with major stakeholders, including parents, on how best safety at schools could be achieved.

“Should we licence all teachers with guns? Surely this is where this entire situation appears to be heading and very soon teachers will have to take a stand against being forced to work in such a hazardous environment,” King stated.

Baksh announced that his Ministry is in the process of incorporating a number of school welfare officers to assists teachers and plans to declare all schools ‘smoke-free zones’. He stated that although social problems in schools have escalated, it is not only the responsibility of the Ministry but also parents, the community and other key stakeholders.

Baksh commented that a more child-friendly approach is necessary with respect to students taking weapons to school instead of a search system.
By Gordon French
Caribbean Net News Guyana Correspondent
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