Shelly-Ann Thompson, Gleaner Writer

Henry: it must be treated as an emergency. - File

Harshly criticising the handling of recent attacks in schools, Hopeton Henry, president of the Jamaica Teachers' Association (JTA), has called for the expansion of the Safe Schools Programme.

On Thursday, a female teacher at the Kingston Technical High School was left traumatised after several boys reportedly sexually harassed her.

Last week Tuesday, there was violent clash between a security guard and two students at the Marcus Garvey Technical High School in St. Ann. The incident has left the security guard and a student nursing injuries.

Students shot and injured

In addition, last November, five male students were shot and injured by a security guard on duty at the Vere Technical High School in Clarendon.

"In light of these recent incidents, which seem to be growing, and the fact that some of these cases are not being reported, it must be treated as an emergency," said Mr. Henry.

"Decisive action needs to be taken by the school administration (of Kingston Technical) in dealing with these truant students. But it must have the backing of the Attorney-General and the Ministry of Education."

Mr. Henry also said teachers need to be given greater latitude in dealing with these incidents.

"I am calling for the expansion of the Safe Schools Programme where more school resource officers are placed in schools."

shelly-ann.thompson@gleanerjm.com