NAPLES, Italy – Schools across Naples and its province are intensifying security measures by introducing metal detectors and increased patrols at entrances to prevent students from bringing weapons into classrooms. This initiative, which has been active for eleven months, aims to curb a growing trend of young people carrying knives in schools.
A Growing Concern: Weapons in Schools
The issue of students carrying knives is no longer confined to specific areas but has become a widespread concern across Naples, affecting schools in both affluent and disadvantaged neighborhoods. Incidents have been reported in various districts, including Caivano, Ponticelli, Pollena Trocchia, and Materdei, indicating a problem that transcends socioeconomic boundaries.
Prefect Michele di Bari of Naples stated, “For eleven months, there has been a plan in Naples and the province that includes controls to prevent knives from entering schools.” These controls involve patrols at school entrances during opening hours, the use of metal detectors, and even canine units for quick inspections of backpacks and bags.
Beyond Repression: The Need for Dialogue
While repressive measures are in place, there is a strong emphasis on prevention and dialogue. “Alongside repression, it is essential to continue talking to young people,” Di Bari stressed, “and make them understand how wrong and dangerous it is.” He previously highlighted that “walking with a knife in your pocket does not make you seem mature or worthy of consideration. There are values that cannot be trampled on.”
Notable incidents include the discovery of a 20-centimeter knife in a bathroom at the Scudillo-Caraffa-Salvemini school in Colli Aminei, and a 12-year-old boy found with a knife at the Ipsar Tognazzi in Pollena Trocchia. The Morano institute in Parco Verde di Caivano and the “Marie Curie” in Ponticelli have also implemented these security measures.
Alarming Statistics and Calls for Legislative Action
Data from the Carabinieri reveal a concerning trend: in the past year, 38 adolescents in Naples and its province have been arrested or reported for possessing knives at school. This figure is considered just the tip of the iceberg of a growing phenomenon.
Valeria Pirone, a school principal, described the situation as “a continuous war.” She advocates for legislative changes, stating, “It is too easy for young people to obtain knives. Their sale should be banned, and social media should be monitored much more closely.” Pirone also noted that carrying a knife has become a “fashion, a social recognition” among some young people.
The Role of Families and Government Intervention
Pirone emphasized the critical role of families, referring to them as the “weak link” in the chain. While controls act as a deterrent, they cannot replace the foundational guidance that should come from home. “It is there that a synergistic action must be built,” she asserted.
During a year-end press conference, Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni announced intentions to ban the online sale of bladed weapons. While a positive step, it is deemed insufficient on its own. Pirone concluded, “Only a combination of actions works: targeted activities, constant awareness, and controls.”
The issue in Naples reflects a broader challenge, prompting a multi-faceted approach that combines strict security measures with educational initiatives and calls for greater societal responsibility to ensure the safety of students.
Source: https://napoli.corriere.it/notizie/cronaca/26_gennaio_17/napoli-metal-detector-a-scuola-per-evitare-che-i-ragazzi-portino-armi-in-classe-34beee43-053b-431f-b78b-c5d940c3dxlk.shtml
