The Education Ministry and school administrators are being urged to consider implementing alternatives to expulsion and suspension of students for disciplinary breaches.

This, as there is concern about expelled or suspended students being given more impetus to become involved in gang activity, since they are no longer engaged at school.

Deputy Superintendent of police and CAPRI researcher, Joanna Callen raised the issue last evening at the education ministry’s Anti Gang Town Hall meeting, under the theme, “The impact of gangs on schools and the wider society”.

Ms Callen has done extensive research on issues related to schools and gang related activity.

She noted that students who are not engaged at school, tend to turn to community members who may not necessarily have a positive social influence on them.

She suggested that the government and school leaders consider alternative behaviour therapy, to address issues affecting students.