Minister of Education and Sports, Ogerta Manastirliu, said in her remarks, “We must commit to intensifying this communication so that all the resources at our disposal, all the structures that are in place, serve this goal by establishing even more prevention networks, strengthening the existing ones, and also using technology as an ally.”

“On the other hand, by restricting those platforms that undermine the authority of teachers and parents, and cause concerns for both children and young people, such as mental health issues—incidents of which have been increasing, according to various studies and research—due to the negative effects caused by platforms like TikTok or Snapchat,” emphasized Manastirliu.

Minister Manastirliu said that “we are engaging in this communication and discussions before decisions that need to be made regarding the improvement and further strengthening of prevention tools against all forms of violence, bullying, or online abuse, as part of the overall strategy. Additionally, it is related to another ongoing discussion with parents, as part of this communication we have started, regarding the ban or restriction on certain online platforms like TikTok or Snapchat—decisions that we need to make together.”

“The school security officer, the social worker, and the psychologist now form an essential core in the security system within our educational structures. Our focus is on scaling up the model of schools that offer these services. Updating work protocols is another measure, which is part of our efforts, but now seen from the perspective of integrating technology and online platforms, to guide them towards proactive reporting,” declared Manastirliu.

Minister Manastirliu also touched upon the new pilot program “After School,” which will begin in 2025.

“We will pilot, starting in 2025, the ‘After School’ extracurricular programs to ensure that children have the opportunity in schools not only to do their homework but also to engage in extracurricular activities, thereby extending their time spent at school,” the Minister said.

The Ministry of Education and Sports, in collaboration with educational institutions, has launched an extensive consultation tour with the parent community to strengthen mechanisms for preventing acts of violence in and outside of schools, as well as to address the challenges posed by social media in the daily lives of children and young people.

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