Schools Enhance Safety with New Security Training for Guards

The Ministry of Education, Science and Innovation has announced the completion of four training sessions for 122 security guards employed in educational institutions across Montenegro. This initiative aims to enhance the safety of students and teachers in Podgorica and other areas, addressing issues such as bullying and organized fights among students.

Since February 2023, these trained guards have faced various challenges, including preventing fights and mediating conflicts between students. They have also played a vital role in ensuring the safety of teachers. According to some guards, establishing trust with students is crucial for effective intervention.

“We have had various situations. The most important thing is to gain trust with the children so they understand that we are here to protect them,” a security guard explained. “When fights start, we respond quickly and resolve the situation immediately. We cannot have physical contact with the children, but we work to ensure they feel safe.”

The Montenegrin government recently approved a decision to employ physical security in 68 primary schools, 44 secondary schools, and one student dormitory from October 1 to December 31, 2023. This temporary measure aims to prevent violence and other incidents, as previous implementations have proven effective.

“There have been instances where parents have come to confront teachers, but once we explain who we are and how things should be handled, they usually calm down,” another guard shared. “We have not encountered any significant problems so far.”

The guards emphasize their friendly relationships with the students, highlighting the importance of trust. They monitor who enters the school premises, ensuring a secure environment.

“We keep everything under control,” they stated, reinforcing their commitment to maintaining safety.

The government allocated a budget of €418,200 to support this initiative, which aims to establish a more permanent security system in collaboration with the Ministry of Interior. Plans include the potential deployment of school police officers and other security measures.

The Ministry of Education, Science and Innovation confirmed that the training for security personnel was conducted with the support of the Montenegrin Chamber of Commerce and the Police Academy of Danilovgrad. This initiative provides additional training for security guards, enhancing the protection of students, employees, and school facilities.

The training program covered both theoretical and practical aspects of security, including the application of authority, procedures in risky situations, juvenile law, and strategies to prevent violence and vandalism.

Specific topics included the responsibilities and duties of security personnel, the application of authority within the school environment, and handling various situations involving threats to personal safety and property. Training also addressed issues of juvenile crime and the proper response to incidents of violence and discrimination.

The program was led by experts such as Mladen Bulatović, a specialist in business and civil security, and Slavko Milić, an officer from the Ministry of Interior.

Utilizing interactive methods, the training involved lectures, discussions, simulations, and practical exercises, ensuring guards are well-prepared to handle the unique challenges of a school environment.