Barda: Equipping Schools with Surveillance Cameras and Security to Combat School Violence
Follow-up
Said Barda, the Minister of National Education and Preschool Education, confirmed that his ministry is working to contain the phenomenon of violence within educational institutions by progressively equipping them with surveillance cameras and security services. The ministry aims to enhance educational, security, and administrative measures to tackle various forms of aggression that threaten the educational atmosphere.
In a written response to a question posed by MP Idris Santi on the prevalence of violence in educational institutions, Barda stated that the ministry considers all forms of violence as unacceptable behavior, academically, morally, and socially, due to its direct impact on students’ academic achievement and the overall environment within schools.
He noted that two ministerial circulars were issued in 2017 and 2024 to combat violence as part of an integrated approach involving students, educational staff, parent associations, civil society, and security authorities. He emphasized the continuation of programs aimed at instilling values of tolerance and civic behavior among the youth, alongside awareness campaigns and the intensification of recreational and sporting activities within schools.
The minister stressed the importance of the administrative aspect by developing listening and vigilance cells and establishing instantaneous reporting and decisive intervention from the regional directorates. He also highlighted the activation of national and regional observatories to combat violence and the signing of a partnership with the General Directorate of National Security in September 2024 to enhance school safety.
Regarding digital violence stemming from the use of smartphones, Barda revealed the activation of a ministerial circular issued in 2018 that prohibits the use of phones inside classrooms. He mentioned the preparation of a new guide to regulate the permissible educational use of these devices, involving families and media in awareness-raising and support efforts.
Barda confirmed that the ministry, despite its ongoing efforts, continues to coordinate with various stakeholders to ensure a safe and encouraging school environment capable of nurturing generations infused with values of openness and dialogue, while being shielded from all forms of violence, including digital violence.
