In Shymkent, schools and kindergartens have been without licensed security since the beginning of March. During the day, teachers take on security duties, while at night, it's the technical staff. The position of a guard at School No. 24 in Shymkent is now combined with that of the deputy director for economic affairs. In light of the shortage of security personnel, the technical staff is temporarily taking on security duties in shifts in the evening, with teachers covering during the day. This new arrangement has added extra responsibilities for the school staff.
The security guard's role at School No. 24 is now being handled by the deputy director for economic affairs, Kuandyk Kopesov. He mentioned that they have requested three permanent security guard positions from the city authorities to work during the night. However, until this issue is resolved, the staff are left to secure the school themselves. The situation arose due to security personnel in schools and kindergartens in Shymkent complaining about low wages, receiving around 70,000 tenge per month. With the recent increase in the minimum wage to 85,000 tenge, they were hopeful for a raise, but it seems the government does not plan to increase the contract amount.
The Department of Education in Shymkent assures that the safety of children in schools is not compromised. The schools have surveillance cameras connected to the police department's control center, along with emergency call buttons. However, some parents believe there should be personnel physically checking everyone entering and exiting the school. Despite this, some residents of Shymkent have not even noticed the absence of security guards, as staff from the institutions have temporarily replaced them.
Currently, around 500 security guards in Shymkent are unemployed, with only 23 schools under licensed security protection. Another 147 educational institutions are in need of professional security services. The issue is being addressed, with a new tender announced to resolve the situation.
In early February, the city prosecutor's office in Kokshetau, together with the police department of the Akmola region, conducted inspections on security organizations responsible for school safety. It was discovered that some individuals in charge of student safety had issues not only with alcohol but also with the law. Residents emphasize the importance of having security guards in schools to protect state property and ensure the safety of children.
