Security dynamics

With the recent uptick in militant attacks across the country, it has become all the more important for educational institutions to adopt measures to ensure the safety of students and teachers. As a result, the Khyber Pakhtunkhwa education department’s decision to temporarily close down 46 schools in DI Khan for failing to implement suitable security arrangements serves as both a warning and an incentive to take concrete precautions. No CCTV cameras had been installed at these schools and their boundary walls were not fenced with barbed wire to prevent intruders from entering the premises.

The fresh spell of violence in the country has triggered a wave of panic and hampered public confidence in the prevailing security dynamics. Parents will be reluctant to send their children to school if security mechanisms are not implemented with care. A similar situation was witnessed after the Army Public School attack when a large number of educational institutions were temporarily closed down for failing to maintain security. At this critical juncture, the education department in all four provinces should make a concerted effort to ensure that standard operating procedures are observed in letter and spirit. Security lapses must be addressed to prevent any eventualities.

Asim Kazmi

Peshawar