The Modern Issue of School Bullying

In an article entitled ‘Statement by Education Minister on issues of School bullying’ dated February 10, 2015, the Education Minister, the Honourable Dr. Tim Gopeesingh at a press conference at the Ministry Head Office in St. Clair spoke on the matter of school bullying. The main concerns were based on the release of viral videos on the school media which is an ongoing issue and increasing due to the lack of proper parenting in the homes.

Over a period of years systems were put in place to curb the situation by placing personal security of students, teachers and other school personnel including methods to observe and assist victims and perpetrators but it has been discovered that a child on violence can often be victims of larger problems which may arise from issues in the home, community, or mental and psychological issues. As a result, a great effort is being made that all children get the necessary help needed in this area.

Preventative methods are in place such as the use of safety Officers, Teachers trained in alternative dispute resolution, Student support Services, guidance counselors, School social Workers and that s just to name a few. In addition, School vacancies are filled and schools now have a full complement of Dean and discipline. Moreover, students are privy to have sessions on a weekly basis where they speak with teachers on issues they may have at “Circle of Hope” [group sessions]”.

However, research has shown that increase co-curricular and extracurricular activities including sports in schools, to widely reduce indiscipline among students who participated in them by building self esteem, imparting discipline and the general benefits of exercise and competition tends to tremendously impact on students well being.

Children spend half of their time away from home, at school and school media make it possible to record instances of school violence and bullying. Although several systems are put into place at schools such as scanners in secondary schools, CCTV, Security and the use of body scans, some children will continue to do what they do; some are disciplined, well mannered and has high hopes in becoming successful in life, others, the very opposite. However, with time it is hopeful that the situation will change and children will be protected from the ills of bullying and school violence else they will face the full force of the law as the Ministry is working with the Police in this area.