The Education Ministry said they will not comment further on the rape of the eight year old student which occurred last week, as the matter is now with the police.

The Ministry has maintained that the matter is out of their hands and all questions should be referred to the police.

When asked on the issue of security in schools, the Ministry maintained that the onus is now on principals and head teachers to step up their security operations whichever way they can.

The Ministry stated that if schools can afford to pay for the services of a security firm, then they may do so.

The Education Ministry stated that the directive has been sent out to Divisional Educational Officers, who will inform their respective schools.

The Ministry stated that schools should take whatever action necessary to ensure that students are safe at all times during school hours.