The recent wave of violent incidents near schools in central Jamaica has left local education officials shaken, with one prominent leader calling it a troubling reflection of broader societal issues.
Susan Nelson-Smith, the Director of Regional Education Services for Region Five in the Ministry of Education, expressed deep concern over the safety of students in her jurisdiction, which includes the parishes of St. Elizabeth and Manchester. Her reaction came after two violent attacks occurred within hours of each other, one outside Rousseau Primary in Kingston and the other near Holmwood Technical School.
“This is not just an isolated incident. This is an alarming trend,” Nelson-Smith stated, clearly distressed. “Schools should be places where children are safe and protected. To see this violence encroaching on our educational spaces is heartbreaking.”
The first attack took place at Holmwood Technical School, where a bus driver was fatally shot while preparing to transport students. The assailant ambushed the driver at around 8:10 am, creating a scene of horror for those nearby, including several students.
Nelson-Smith, who was informed of the incident early that morning, immediately activated the Ministry’s safety protocols. “We are working swiftly to ensure the safety of all students and staff. Our regional safety officer was dispatched to the scene, and we are in direct communication with the school’s leadership,” she said.
Guidance counselors were also on site to support students, offering trauma counseling for those who may have witnessed the horrific event. The school was temporarily closed to ensure that everyone, especially those affected, could recover from the shock.
Just hours later, a similar tragedy occurred outside Rousseau Primary, when a man, believed to be a parent, was gunned down near the school gate. The violence prompted an immediate shutdown of the school. Nelson-Smith pointed out that this was the second violent incident at Rousseau Primary within the current school year, following a deadly shooting on the school compound in October.
“It’s devastating that our children are exposed to such violence,” she said. “This is not just a crisis for the schools, but for the community at large. We must find a way to address these issues head-on.”
Nelson-Smith emphasized that the Ministry of Education was working diligently to provide the necessary resources to support students and staff in the aftermath of the incidents, including guidance counselors and additional security measures.
As these tragedies continue to unfold, the community and education officials alike are grappling with the harsh reality that violence, once seen as an external threat, is now infiltrating the very spaces designed to foster learning and growth.
