The practice of having an adult present among pupils and students all the time, called “Salesian Presence”, was proposed as a best way of ensuring discipline in school.
Bro. Raju Sandeep Toppo from Tonj Primary School explained to the participants in the Rumbek Diocesan Assembly that the Salesian presence meant that an adult was with the pupils and students during all the time, Good News Radio reported.He explained that such constant adult presence deters young people from getting into mischief and other forms of bad behaviour.
Sr. Antonietta, a Salesian sister involved in education in Tonj, said that this continuous presence has to be active rather than passive.
She insisted that pupils and students should not be left on their own.
Remarking on the Salesian Presence methodology, Bishop Caesar Rumbek expressed support for the system, describing it as a positive approach and a preventive system to deal with young people in school.
He also described the methodology as more formative and less punitive, saying that it originates from the wisdom of Don Bosco which creates a good atmosphere that enhances cooperation.
Last year recorded many cases of indiscipline in schools run by the Rumbek diocese, some involving physical assault of Church personnel, resulting in temporary school closure.