Keeping our school campus and students safe is of paramount importance. Upgrades in our systems and access points are evident in how we uphold this. Wonder who are our guardians of security? We speak with two long-time staff, Kumar and George, on their team’s work.
Hi Kumar, hi George, could you introduce yourselves and the team behind you please?
[Kumar]
I’m Selva Kumar, I have been in GESS for 6 years and 2 months. There are 4 of us, George, Subra, Azlan, and myself.
[George]
Hello, I’m George. Since starting my journey with Gess in 2000, I’m now the Supervisor of a team that includes 4 internal officers, Kumar, Subra, Lan and me as well as external officers from a Security Agency. On a daily basis there’s approximately about 11 officers on site, including both day and night shifts.
What does your team do on a day-to-day basis?
[Kumar]
On a day-to-day basis, my team managed the gantries, with me stationed at one of them, as well as going on patrols and security duties.
[George]
My role involves regular foot patrols to deter and detect unauthorized activity, checking IDs, issuing visitor passes, monitoring CCTV for suspicious behaviour, and securing all entry points. I also document incidents, respond to alarms, and assist visitors. My day often starts at 7am and can extend to 7pm or later during events. I oversee external officers and manage ad-hoc deployments when needed, with peak periods occurring during student drop-offs and dismissals.
What are some of your challenges at work, and how does your team overcome it?
[George]
Coordinating the deployment of external officers in the morning can be quite challenging, as we often receive the final headcount at the last minute due to unexpected absences like personal emergencies or sick leave. Additionally, managing confrontations with difficult individuals and addressing the concerns of distressed visitors can be demanding. However, I’m proud to say that we have never had to call in the police to resolve any incidents on campus. Unfortunately, I’m unable to share details about what happens behind the scenes.
You have been in GESS for so long! Can you share your most memorable moment at GESS so far?
[Kumar]
This is my first experience working in a school environment and navigating a new building. It’s also my first time engaging with such a diverse range of cultures within a school setting.
[George]
Not all memories are positive. During my time at GESS, I’ve seen many people come and go, but one of the most profound losses was a staff member who tragically perished in the 2004 Boxing Day Tsunami. He was a kind and friendly person, always greeting us with a warm smile each morning. His loss was a shock to our community. Yet, it was truly heartening to witness how the GESS community came together in support of one another during such a difficult time. On a brighter note, one of the most rewarding aspects of my time here has been watching students grow up and eventually return to GESS with their own families and children; it’s an incredible experience that makes this journey so special.
What is your favourite part about working in GESS?
[Kumar]
Engaging with students and parents, along with our annual facilities team bonding activities.
[George]
Interacting with individuals from diverse backgrounds broaden your perspective and deepens your understanding of different cultures. Exchanging ideas and experiences with people from various cultures also stimulates innovative thinking and effective problem-solving. For example, parents often share their travel experiences with me, highlighting the dos and don’ts of their journey. These conversations not only expand my cultural awareness but also help me plan my own travels more effectively.
