School Implements Anti-Violence Assistant Program to Prevent Bullying

The Milan Vuković Primary School in Herceg Novi has initiated a pilot program aimed at preventing violence and vandalism among students by employing an assistant dedicated to these issues. Since the program’s implementation last year, Principal Mare Vujinović reported a significant reduction in incidents, emphasizing the school’s commitment to a zero-tolerance policy for violence.

Vujinović stated in an interview that the assistant’s role has been crucial, as it has helped avert potential conflicts among students. The school has recorded only a few instances of psychological and mild physical violence, all of which were addressed effectively through established protocols. She remarked, “We do not sweep cases under the rug; they are systematically and publicly addressed.”

The program is available to schools with over 700 students, and the Milan Vuković Primary School is currently the only institution in the Bay of Kotor region participating in the initiative. The school signed a tripartite agreement with the Ministry of Labor and Social Welfare, the Ministry of Education, Science, and Innovation, and the school itself, which led to the hiring of the assistant on a ten-month contract.

Focus on Proactive Measures

Beginning on September 1, 2023, the assistant’s engagement was formalized through an employment contract for a period of 30 days. This role falls under the revised regulations that allow schools with over 700 students to employ personnel dedicated to ensuring safety and protecting school property. Vujinović explained that the assistant’s responsibilities extend beyond responding to incidents; they are also expected to identify potential threats and prevent incidents from occurring.

In addition to the assistant’s presence, the school promotes a culture of anti-violence through continuous education for students, facilitated by school psychologists and class teachers. Workshops based on the Skills for Adolescence Project are being conducted, aiming to teach children non-violent behavior from an early age. Vujinović highlighted the importance of early intervention, noting that “the earlier children learn these skills, the better the outcomes.”

Government Initiatives and Security Measures

Training for these assistants is conducted at the Police Academy in Danilovgrad, lasting 35 days. Candidates must meet specific criteria, including holding a valid driver’s license and demonstrating psychological and physical fitness. They must also provide proof of no serious criminal convictions, particularly those involving violence.

The government has recently announced plans to deploy physical security personnel in certain schools starting from October 1, 2023, as a temporary measure to combat bullying. This initiative will see 205 security personnel assigned to 68 primary schools, 44 secondary schools, and one student dormitory, funded by a budget allocation of €418,200. Authorities described this measure as effective during the previous academic year and intend to establish a permanent system of protection, which could include school resource officers in collaboration with the Ministry of Internal Affairs.

The steps taken by the Milan Vuković Primary School and the wider government initiatives reflect a dedicated effort to create a safer educational environment for children, focusing on prevention and proactive engagement rather than reactive measures.