Min asks parents not to panic on kids’ safety in schools after crimes

Schools and the state education ministry have stated parents should trust schools in terms of their children's safety. Vinod Tawde, state education minister for school and higher education, claimed parents should not connect everything to one untoward incident.

School authorities claimed trust and faith of parents is the most important aspect to build a secured environment. A sense of safety is inculcated among children at home by parents and the same can be passed when students enter schools. If parents trust school authorities completely then untoward incidents can be avoided. Fr Francis Swamy, Principal of St Mary's School, Mazgaon said, “We are conducting sessions to inform parents about daily activities and curriculum. We can create a healthy environment if parents cooperate with us.”

The state education ministry has directed schools to go a step ahead than installing Closed-Circuit Television (CCTV) cameras. Tawde said, “Schools should not rely on just CCTV cameras as these cameras just help to keep a watch and review incidents. In fact, schools should conduct counselling and informative sessions.”

Parents have appreciated these initiatives of schools for holistic growth. Maenali Sawant, a parent, said, “We are glad schools are involving us in day to day activities. Schools can enhance safety measures if we parents take the initiative to cooperate. Our kids need a better environmentwhich begins from home.”