School safety unites four ministries: national package launched, smart cameras already installed in 20 schools

Children’s safety, health, well-being and nutrition in schools will be addressed through a joint approach by several state institutions.

The National School Safety Package was presented on Tuesday in Kamëz, during a meeting with pupils, teachers and parents.

The presentation was attended by Interior Minister Ervin Demo, Education Minister Mirela Kumbaro, Health and Social Welfare Minister Klodiana Spahiu, Agriculture and Rural Development Minister Andis Salla, as well as Kamëz Mayor Rakip Suli.

The initiative sets out a clear division of responsibilities among the four ministries. The State Police will focus on protecting and securing children, while the Ministry of Education will focus on the school environment and pupils’ well-being.

At the same time, the Ministry of Health will handle aspects related to children’s health and care, while the Ministry of Agriculture will be responsible for food safety.

Education Minister Mirela Kumbaro emphasized cooperation between security officers, psychologists, social workers and other structures operating in schools.

According to her, the goal is for problems that could affect pupils’ safety or well-being to be identified as early as possible and addressed through a coordinated system.

Kumbaro also announced that smart cameras have already been installed in around 20 schools in Kamëz and Tirana, while the existing camera system continues to operate in other schools.

The minister described coordination between institutions as an important element for strengthening security on school premises and for giving more reassurance to parents.

Interior Minister Ervin Demo said the State Police will have a significant role in guaranteeing security around school premises.

“Zero tolerance” will be the approach toward actions that could harm children’s safety and well-being, Demo said, calling the issue one of the Police’s main priorities.

According to him, the package aims to give children full protection, not only inside school premises but also in the surrounding areas.

Another element of the package is strengthening communication between security officers, teachers, psychologists, social workers, the police and parents.

Through this cooperation, the aim is to identify in time situations or phenomena that could negatively affect pupils’ safety, health and well-being.