It takes a village to stop the violence
Following a school shooting at Ateneo de Zamboanga University, this piece argues that violence in schools is a systemic societal issue rather than just a failure of institutional security. It calls for a broader focus on children's mental health and community responsibility.
Why it matters
It addresses the urgent need for comprehensive mental health support and social intervention to prevent youth violence.
Another school. Another act of violence. Another set of families whose lives will never be the same.
The shooting at the Ateneo de Zamboanga University high school campus is difficult to comprehend. Two young people died, including the student who carried out the attack. Two others were injured, and a teacher was reportedly targeted. Perhaps most disturbing of all, part of the attack was livestreamed on social media.
How did the firearms get inside the school? Where was security? Were there warning signs? What could the school have done?
These questions must be asked. Schools have a duty to protect their students and personnel, and every such incident must prompt a careful examination of security protocols, emergency preparedness and systems for identifying and assisting children at risk.
Get smarter about the news
Sign up free for a feed built around what you actually care about, Dive Deeper research on any story, and the full text of every article.
Create free accountAlready have an account? Sign in