Addressing the Drug and Delinquency Challenges in Schools
In a recent session with MPs, Justice Minister Marios Hartsiotis disclosed that over the last three years, more than 400 secondary school students have been referred to drug treatment programmes. The minister emphasized the disproportionate burden placed on the police drug squad Ykan and called for greater involvement from teachers in tackling the issue.
Hartsiotis pointed out the reluctance among parents and educators to report drug-related incidents, often due to fear of legal repercussions or personal safety. However, he stressed the importance of cooperation across the education sector to achieve better outcomes in combating drug problems within schools.
Education Minister Athina Michaelidou acknowledged the hesitancy among teachers to report drug trafficking but noted a shift in attitudes. An internal electronic platform has been introduced for reporting incidents, signaling a move away from the previous tendency to protect the school’s image.
Michaelidou also addressed concerns about drug trafficking near primary schools, cautioning against exaggeration or denial of such situations. She highlighted that juvenile delinquency remains an issue, with Police Chief Stelios Papatheodorou reporting a decrease in criminal acts involving minors.
Papatheodorou informed MPs of the liaison system between schools and police, allowing confidential reporting of drug or delinquency incidents. He also mentioned specialized services for handling cases of sexual abuse involving minors.
The committee was informed of a troubling case where a high school student remained at the same school as his abusers following a sexual assault incident. Michaelidou cited ongoing police investigations as a limiting factor for immediate school action but confirmed that reporting protocols are in place.
Efforts to bolster support services were discussed, with plans to increase the Immediate Intervention Team and calls for more educational psychologists and counsellors. Akel MP Christos Christofides highlighted the current shortage of psychologists, with one available for every 1,800 pupils, and urged for timely solutions.
Regarding juvenile detention facilities, Hartsiotis mentioned a 2026 deadline for completion as per 2021 legislation. Meanwhile, Michaelidou revealed plans for a new study programme aimed at children with delinquent behaviour.
Christofides emphasized the need for preventive measures to address underlying social issues and problem families, rather than solely focusing on management after problems arise.
The discussions underscored a multifaceted approach to dealing with drugs and delinquency in schools, involving legal frameworks, educational policies, and community support systems.
