PEF partner schools asked to implement security SOPs

All schools required to install CCTV cameras at school campuses

LAHORE: The Punjab Education Foundation (PEF) has asked its partners school to ensure implementation of standard operating procedures (SOPs) issued by the provincial government for security of schools.

The circular issued by the PEF Foundation Assisted Schools (FAS) programme director on Sunday directed partner schools to raise their boundary walls to eight-feet height and to put up barbed wires on them. It said that entry to and exit from the schools premises should be allowed from only one point. A security guard equipped with a metal detector should be assigned at the entrance, it said. The guard should examine identity documents of everyone walking in and out of the building, it said. All other entrances should remain closed.

The circular also sought installation of closed-circuit television (CCTV) cameras equipped with around the clock video recording facility at various spots on school campuses.

It asked the schools to display contact details of law enforcement agencies and emergency rescue and relief services at a visible location.

Speaking to The Express Tribune, PEF spokesperson Qudratullah said the circular was issued in view of the security situation following the terrorist attack at Bacha Khan University, Charsadda. He said a copy of the document had been sent to all 3,867 partner schools. He said the PEF would monitor the schools to ensure that the SOPs were implemented.

Published in The Express Tribune, January 25^th,  2016.