Checking schoolbags allowed under the Education Act – FBC News

(Photo file)

The Permanent Secretary for Education, under the provisions of the Education Act 1966, may authorize random inspections of pupils’ school bags.

However, PS for Justice Selina Kuruleca says she is currently seeking legal advice from the Attorney General’s office on what may be considered invasive or non-invasive when conducting such on-site inspections.

She was responding to questions at the ODPP’s annual conference about whether authorities have the authority to inspect luggage for illegal substances or other materials.

PS for justice, Selina Kuruleca

Kuruleca says that during her time at the Ministry of Education, she often encountered harsh reactions from parents who had their children’s bags randomly checked.

“Parents who call us say, ‘How dare you do this?’ “I have always responded with this statement: the purpose of spot checks – just opening the bag and checking, is to keep the child safe.”

He added that several schools in Suva conduct random inspections on a daily basis and parents have since understood the reasons behind the action.

Kuruleca says that due to limited resources, the police K9 unit is not always available for such inspections, but has agreed to be present at all major sporting events.

“It doesn’t matter whether it’s basketball, hockey, rugby or athletics, because that’s where a child can have access to drugs.”

It emphasizes that while not all children engage in drug-related activities, it is extremely important for parents to talk to their children about the dangers of engaging in illegal activities.