School CCTV linked to drop in vandalism, education minister says

Nicosia, Cyprus. Schools fitted with CCTV cameras have recorded a noticeable reduction in vandalism and other delinquent behaviour, particularly damage to school premises, Education Minister Athena Michailidou told the House Education Committee.

CCTV expansion

Michailidou said the reduction followed the installation of CCTV systems at a number of schools in various areas in recent years.

The measure was introduced to prevent destruction and damage that had mainly occurred during afternoon and evening hours.

Installation of cameras at further schools is proceeding normally, based on existing planning and data gathered partly from police, she said.

Additional measures

The minister briefed the committee on the new school year, during which the issue of school violence and delinquency was raised.

Michailidou said efforts to address such behaviour extend beyond cameras and include pedagogical policies in schools.

These measures include dedicated school committees, a strengthened role for school counsellors and the introduction of social workers. The first social workers will be based at specific schools from this year under a pilot programme.