VIOLENCE has no place in the nation’s schools, says the Commissioner of Police (COP) Alister Guevarro as the Trinidad and Tobago Police Service (TTPS) launches the School Oriented Policing Initiative.

Launched on Monday, the School-Oriented Policing Initiative was announced on September 4 by Minister of Education Dr Michael Dowlath at a post-cabinet press briefing, held at the Diplomatic Centre, St Ann’s.

Dowlath said, “The Ministry of Education in collaboration with the Ministry of National Security and the Trinidad and Tobago Police Service is introducing police officers into schools across Trinidad and Tobago.”

He said this move was part of a wider strategy to create “safe and secure learning environments.”

Two officers would be placed in 50 secondary schools identified as being “high risk,” while 10 secondary and 10 primary schools would have dedicated police patrols throughout the day.

In a press release from the TTPS on Monday, Commissioner of Police Alister Guevarro commented on the launch of the initiative, saying, “Today’s reception was more than courteous; it was a clear signal that our schools are ready to partner with TTPS in fostering safe, respectful, and empowered learning environments.”

Guevarro said, “Let it be known that violence has no place in our schools. TTPS stands firm in its duty to protect our youth and preserve the sanctity of the classroom.”

The TTPS said it had adopted a zero-tolerance policy when it comes to violence in school, adding all acts of intimidation, aggression and disruption would be swiftly and decisively addressed.

The release stated the initiative would “be closely monitored over the coming months, with structured evaluations and stakeholder feedback guiding its evolution.”

Reaffirming its commitment to the initiative, the TTPS, stated it would be guided by evaluations and tailor the programme to “meet the unique needs of each school while maintaining the highest standards of professionalism and responsiveness.”