Between 2012 and 2023, over 4,500 referrals were made to the Anti-Bullying Services, the Education Minister informed parliament on Monday.
Clifton Grima shared these statistics in response to a parliamentary query from PN MP Graziella Attard Previ.
Previ inquired about the number of bullying cases reported from 2012 to 2023, and the specific referrals made in 2023.
Grima clarified that although 4,611 referrals were logged during this period, this number does not reflect the actual count of bullying victims or perpetrators. In 2023 alone, there were 499 referrals.
Addressing further questions from Previ, Grima detailed that the Anti-Bullying Services team for the 2023/2024 academic year consists of five guidance teachers and two education support practitioners.
The minister highlighted that the staff conducts awareness sessions for parents and students, and offers training for teachers.
The Anti-Bullying Service, operating under the Educational Support Services, was established to address and manage bullying behavior within colleges.
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