MOE To Implement Key Measures To Ensure Educational Institutions Remain Safe

PUTRAJAYA, Aug 11 (Bernama) -- The Ministry of Education (MOE) will implement key measures to ensure safety at educational institutions under its purview, including conducting safety audits at all institutions, among them fully residential schools and daily hostels.

Education director-general Dr Mohd Azam Ahmad stated in today’s statement that the audit exercise would focus on the compliance of standard operating procedures (SOPs) relating to safety.

“Findings of these audits will be presented to MOE’s top management within three months,” he said, adding that the ministry will also improve safety SOPs in schools and measures to address disciplinary issues, including bullying, in all its educational institutions.

According to him, existing SOPs and guidelines will be reviewed to ensure they remain relevant to current and future needs.

Mohd Azam noted that the complaint system, including the portal for reporting bullying, will be reformed. It will be more user-friendly and include an option for anonymity to protect complainants and witnesses.

He said a reform committee will be established to enhance safety at MOE’s learning institutions, comprising academics, non-governmental organisations (NGOs), experts in various fields, police, parents, the community, and the private sector.

“The ministry will not compromise on bullying offences. Firm action must be taken, including suspension and expulsion,” he said, adding that the 'Bangkit Bermaruah' intervention programme, which focuses on community service and character development, was introduced specifically for suspended students.

He also warned that administrators, teachers, and district and state education officers will face disciplinary action if they fail to deal with bullying complaints per existing guidelines.

“Psychosocial support will continue to be strengthened at every level to ensure the well-being of students, teachers, and the school community,” he said, adding that guidance and counselling teachers play a vital role in the prevention and intervention efforts to tackle bullying.

-- BERNAMA