ST THOMAS, Jamaica — The Ministry of Education is expressing deep concern and outrage following a tragic incident in which a student of Seaforth High School was fatally stabbed during an altercation reportedly at the Morant Bay Bus Park in St Thomas on Monday afternoon.

According to initial reports, the alleged attacker purchased a knife from a nearby shop shortly before confronting the victim. The ministry said three students are currently in police custody as investigations continue.

READ: Seaforth High student killed after schoolyard dispute escalates, three in custody

In the meantime, the ministry has moved swiftly to provide support, deploying a team of guidance counsellors and ministry officials to Seaforth High School to assist students, staff and administrators during this deeply distressing time and to aid with the investigations.

Education Minister Senator Dr Dana Morris Dixon strongly condemned the incident and underscored the urgent need for a collective response to youth violence.

“On behalf of the ministry, I extend deepest condolences to the family of the deceased and the entire Seaforth High community. This heartbreaking loss of a young life is a stark reminder that we must confront the issue of violence in all its forms with renewed urgency and unity. All of Jamaica must become anti-violence,” Morris Dixon said in a statement from the ministry.

“I appeal for everyone to work with us on eliminating the scourge of violence in the education system. The ministry will continue to work closely with all stakeholders to strengthen the systems of support, discipline and intervention that protect all our children,” she added.

The ministry reiterated its steadfast commitment to fostering a safe, secure and resilient education system outputting responsible young people to lead our nation. Efforts to maximise the conflict resolution programmes, strengthen behavioural support frameworks and expand student counselling services through the leadership of our principals remain a top priority, it added.

The ministry said it continues to collaborate with the security forces, school administrators and community partners to ensure that appropriate actions are taken and that such tragic incidents are prevented in the future.