Education Minister Fayval Williams says social media has amplified the issue of gang violence in the nation’s schools.

Speaking on Sunday at the launch of Anti-gang week, which is being observed from November 13 to 19, under the theme, “Leggo the gang…lift up Jamaica”, Mrs Williams acknowledged that the problem of gangs has been a longstanding one.

She noted, however, that social media has captured and circulated flare ups, bringing more attention to the issue.

Mrs Williams said it is regrettable, that there is a need for an entire week of activities, to address gangs in schools.

Mrs Williams said data show that up to 70% of gang members in the country are between 12 and 30 years old.

She added that targeted effort must be undertaken to prevent children from joining gangs.