School Violence: Minister Gungapersad Takes a Tough Stance After an Assault
On Friday, April 24, a 14-year-old student was violently assaulted by another student at a state college in Hautes Plaines-Wilhems. The victim, unconscious and suffering from facial injuries, ear damage, and a broken tooth, was taken to a private clinic at his parents' request. He has since recovered and returned home.
In response to this incident, Education Minister Mahend Gungapersad stated he does not intend to remain passive. Throughout the weekend, officials worked to determine the next steps. In a statement to Défi Quotidien, Minister Gungapersad reaffirmed a zero-tolerance policy regarding school violence, stating, "The student who misbehaved in this case will be expelled, and the length of the expulsion will be determined this Monday. We want to send a strong message to students, and we are also considering a recovery plan in such cases to help the child manage their emotions...".
Minister Gungapersad stressed the need to support students and channel their energies while highlighting that each expulsion will be accompanied by psychological support for the victim, the aggressor, and other students. He also announced a meeting this Wednesday with Attorney General Gavin Glover and Minister of Gender Equality and Family Welfare Arianne Navarre-Marie to examine the establishment of a legal framework to address assaults in schools. On the ground, teachers and administrative staff are seeking solutions and support for potentially aggressive students. They emphasize the Ministry of Education's 2023 document titled "Tackling School Violence and Bullying," which aims to better combat violence and harassment in school environments. It underscores the importance of a safe and inclusive learning environment, a vital condition for ensuring quality education.
According to UNESCO, "school violence in all its forms constitutes a violation of the rights of children and adolescents." The guide reminds that schools should be places of protection where every student can thrive without fear of discrimination or assault.
The text distinguishes several types of violence: physical, including corporal punishment, which is prohibited by law; psychological, such as insults, humiliation, or rumors; sexual, ranging from verbal harassment to assaults; and gender-based, linked to stereotypes and unequal power relations.
The guide defines bullying as intentional, repeated, and aggressive behavior. It can be physical, verbal, or relational, and now extends to cyberbullying, facilitated by social media and digital tools. The consequences are severe: anxiety, isolation, declining academic performance, and psychological distress. This guide represents an important step towards transforming schools into violence- and harassment-free zones.
