PLANS to open businesses inside government schools have been vetoed by the country’s largest municipal council over fears it would negatively affect the education system.
The Northern Municipal Council, which has 12 members, unanimously rejected the parliamentary proposal that would have knocked down school fences to build shops.
Encourage
Councillors stressed during their weekly meeting yesterday that schools should only be used for educational and other related activities.
Council chairman Ahmed Al Kooheji said the proposal presented by MPs came at a time when authorities were working to develop the country’s education system and encourage students not to cut class.
“The proposal clashes with the goals of Bahrain in which schools are there to teach students and provide discipline,” he said.
“Education is being offered for free by the government and by law it covers everyone, so opening shops won’t push towards better quality education or development.
“We are trying to stop new shops opening in bulk across Bahrain, particularly nearby schools, as we face situations in which students cut class to go to cafeterias or cold stores or places that offer tobacco.
“The situation is dangerous and with parliament’s proposal the danger will be taken to a higher level, as students will get easier access to things that are harmful while being away from the careful monitoring of teachers and administrators.”
Councillor Ahmed Al Mannai also government schools already face issues with students jumping the fence to cut class and hang out at shops that are several kilometres away from the campus.
“Schools are already facing a problem of students jumping the fence to cut class and go to shops that are far away,” he said.
“Bringing the shops to their doorstep will only make matters worse.”
His comments were reiterated by councillor Abdulla Al Qobaisi, who admitted he used to cut class by jumping the school fence when he was in intermediate school in Isa Town.
“I know that students who want to jump the fence will do it whether the shops are close or far, as I did,” he said.
Debate
“However, bringing shops closer means further temptation, not just for what will be offered at these shops but also for those who will make these places their hangouts.”
However, councillor Hussain Al A’ali first argued in favour of the proposal but changed his mind during debate to vote with his colleagues against it.
“This would be an additional income for the Education Ministry which could fund its activities and programmes,” he said.
“The issue with jumping fences is a student’s choice and has nothing to do with the shop itself, whether it is two metres away or a kilometre.
“However, concern of further danger being brought to schools is something that has made me change my perspective.”
The proposal was presented to the country’s three municipal councils – Northern, Southern and Muharraq – and the Capital Trustees Board for review before MPs vote on it at upcoming session.
mohammed@gdn.com.bh
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