Guyana to roll out measures to tackle school violence

GEORGETOWN, Guyana, CMC – The Guyana government is rolling out a multi-pronged response to tackle escalating violence in schools after incidents were recorded in 353 schools nationwide, with Region Four accounting for 41 per cent of reported cases.

President Dr Irfaan Ali said on Friday that rising gang activity, increased substance use, and cyberbullying were among the main factors driving the violence, with Regions Six, Three, Five and Ten also recording significant numbers of incidents.

Cyberbullying has emerged as a major concern, with text messages and social media posts frequently triggering confrontations that extend beyond school compounds.

Ali announced that the government will launch a public consultation on cyberbullying and social media amid growing complaints from teachers and parents about the impact on students.

He said authorities are also strengthening coordination among agencies, expanding counselling services, introducing a standardised referral system, and implementing a scholarship programme targeting at-risk youth.

In addition, security cameras and bag scanners are being installed at high-risk schools, while work is underway to establish a confidential student reporting system.

Ali said the government is also exploring the use of artificial intelligence to help identify behavioural patterns and allow for earlier intervention.

“AI is important in helping us to address predictable behaviour and behavioural patterns so we can be more proactive, have greater parental guidance and community involvement in children’s lives with the involvement of the church, the mosque, the temples and reforming our policies,” he told reporters during a news conference at the Office of the President on Friday.

The president also identified the declining number of male teachers in the education system as another challenge, calling for stronger support structures for female teachers, who make up the majority of the workforce.