00:00At the post-cabinet press briefing on Thursday, Prime Minister Kamala Passat-Besessa addressed what she described as a significant national concern,
00:08the rising student in discipline in schools across the country.
00:12The Prime Minister called for a collaborative national approach to tackle the issue,
00:17saying schools must be safe spaces for learning and development, not environments of fear, disruption or violence.
00:25In response to a recent incident at the southeast Port of Spain Secondary School,
00:32Minister of Education Dr. Michael Dowlath and Minister of Homeland Security Roger Alexander visited the school today to meet with the principal and staff.
00:42Their visit was intended to assess the current situation on the ground, hear directly from teachers and explore ways to restore discipline and safety.
00:51During the visit, the ministers toured the school's facilities and operational areas,
00:57while encouraging open communication between educators and the two ministries.
01:03Minister Dowlath strongly condemned the recent incident, stating that violent behavior among students is unacceptable and will be treated with the utmost seriousness.
01:14He emphasized that schools must remain safe spaces for all students and staff.
01:20Members of the Trinidad and Tobago Police Service were also seen at the school compound today while officials toured.
01:28After the visit, both ministers drove away without addressing the media.
01:33According to a press release sent following the visit, as part of its broader response,
01:38the Ministry of Education has launched a full and urgent review of both the National School Code of Conduct and the National School Discipline Matrix.
01:48According to the Ministry, this is not a routine review, but a critical reassessment aimed at implementing stronger, more relevant and enforceable disciplinary measures.
01:59The Ministry stated that the updated framework will include greater clarity, consistency and consequences to ensure that discipline policies are firm, fair and appropriate for today's school environment.
02:13Officials say the revised disciplinary structure is intended to deter misconduct, reinforce accountability and promote mutual respect within all educational institutions.
02:26The Ministry is also emphasizing the vital role of parents and guardians, urging them to work closely with schools and authorities to help instill values and discipline in students from home.
02:39The Ministry stressed that creating safe and respectful school environments requires a national commitment from educators, families, students and even the wider community.
02:53The Ministry says it remains committed to working with all stakeholders to build structured, secure learning spaces where students and teachers can thrive.
03:04The Ministry of Education continues to monitor the situation and will provide further updates as the review process advances.
03:14The public is being encouraged to support this national effort as authorities work toward restoring discipline and stability in the country's schools.
03:23Alexander Brussel, CV6 News.
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