Education to promote the detection of violence in schools
Two information brochures are intended to further reduce the reluctance of children and young people to seek help if they have experienced violence or sexual assault. Psychological stress and sexualized violence are part of everyday life, but are often hidden, explained Education Minister Simone Oldenburg (Left Party) on Tuesday at the presentation of the two booklets in Schwerin. "Telling is not snitching!" is aimed at pupils in years 3 and 4, while "Getting help is friendship!" is aimed at children from year 5 onwards.
According to Oldenburg, the two brochures complement existing support services for pupils, parents and teachers. Looking and listening are particularly important in order to recognize possible signs of abuse, build trust and be able to react, she said. More and more frequently, victims or their friends are coming forward. While 17 sexual assaults were reported at schools in Mecklenburg-Vorpommern in the 2020/2021 school year, this figure rose to 36 in the following year and 64 in the 2022/2023 school year.
The Education Minister emphasized the importance of integrating discussions about crime, specifically violence and sexual assault, into school curriculum to promote early detection and prevention. Despite the rise in reported incidents of sexual assault in schools, it's crucial for students, parents, and teachers to continue strengthening their vigilance and support systems to address this issue within schools.
Source: www.dpa.com
