Teachers are reportedly reluctant to take action to guarantee safety for Romani pupils.
As a result, many Romani children are afraid to attend school, and drop out at an early age. In September 1999, five non-Romani boys reportedly attacked Zaim in the schoolyard, hitting him in the stomach and face. The school janitor reportedly put an end to the attack and informed the school principal of the incident. Zaim s mother, Ms Ljubica Stankovi , confirmed that he came home that day with bruises on his face and a swollen nose, and that she had to take him to the doctor. She complained to the school principal, who promised to speak to the boys and to prevent any further attacks.