19 Mar 2013

The Ministry of Education and Skills Development is concerned about some cases of indiscipline and vandalism to property in some schools, Parliament has been informed.

Answering a question from the MP for Okavango Mr Bagalatia Arone in Parliament, the Assistant Minister of Education and Skills Development Mr Patrick Masimolole said the issue was being given a multi-pronged approach which include; inclusion of students governance or students’ voice.

Mr Masimolole said the school council system also engaged learners in the decision process of the school, while the school maintenance policy on how schools deal with vandalism was being strengthened.

He said there was strengthening of the guidance and counseling policy in schools which promoted ownership of school property and also strengthening of the pastoral policy in schools and local leaders, PTAs and education mentors to address students on indiscipline and vandalism.

Furthermore, the assistant minister said heads of institutions would be held accountable for implementation and monitoring of the institutions maintenance policy to ensure reduction in vandalism.

Mr Bagalatia had asked the minister whether he was aware that indiscipline and high level of vandalism to school property has and continues to be a serious issue in the education system countrywide.

He had also wanted the minister to update the House on the effectiveness of the school internal control mechanism. ENDS