Ministry of Education and Science of Sarajevo Canton: Schools must be safe spaces

(Patria) - In response to the incident at JU Primary School „Musa Ćazim Ćatić“ Sarajevo, where, according to available information and a video published in the public, an inappropriate verbal and physical attack by a teacher towards students occurred, the Ministry of Education and Science of Sarajevo Canton expresses deep concern, regret, and clear condemnation of any form of behavior that could threaten the dignity, safety, and well-being of children.

The Ministry primarily extends sincere sympathy and support to the students and their families. Every child has an inalienable right to a safe, protected, inclusive, and stimulating school environment, where they feel respected, encouraged, and protected from any form of pressure, fear, violence, or inappropriate conduct by adults entrusted with the responsible role in the process of upbringing and education.

The safety, dignity, and well-being of every child are the absolute priority of the education system, and any form of behavior that could undermine students' sense of security must be subject to an urgent, thorough, and impartial reaction from the competent institutions.

The Ministry expects the school management, as well as all competent authorities, to take all legally prescribed measures without delay to fully clarify the circumstances of this case, including establishing all relevant facts and responsibilities.

At this moment, it is particularly important to act responsibly, calmly, and professionally, with full respect for the need to protect students, as well as to establish the truth based on facts and verified information.

The Ministry of Education and Science of Sarajevo Canton will continue to monitor the actions of the school and all competent institutions regarding this case, within its legal jurisdiction.

At the same time, we remind that schools must remain safe spaces where trust, respect, and dignity of every student and employee of the education system are nurtured.