Guyanese stakeholders agree on measures to tackle bullying in schools

In a landmark move to address the pervasive issue of bullying in schools, the Ministries of Education, Human Services, and Home Affairs in Guyana have united to implement a multi-faceted strategy. This initiative, announced during a national consultation held at the Arthur Chung Conference Centre in Liliendaal, Greater Georgetown, underscores the government’s commitment to fostering a safer and more respectful educational environment. Education Minister Sonia Parag revealed that the ministries will sign a memorandum of understanding to formalize their collaboration. Additionally, a task force, including the Ministry of Legal Affairs, will be established to ensure a structured and effective approach to tackling bullying. Minister Parag emphasized the need for open dialogue on bullying, which could lead to legislative reforms. She also highlighted the inadequacy of transferring bullies to other schools, stressing the importance of addressing the root causes of such behavior. To instill moral values and civic responsibility, the Ministry of Education will introduce Moral Education and Civic Education into school curricula within the next few weeks. Furthermore, a secure digital platform has been launched to enable students, parents, and staff to report bullying incidents confidentially, ensuring timely interventions while protecting privacy. Human Services Minister Dr. Vindhya Persaud presented the national anti-bullying policy, which will serve as a foundation for a broader, more comprehensive strategy. She also noted the role of domestic violence in fostering bullying behavior and called for collective efforts from educators, community leaders, and religious figures to combat this issue. Deputy Chief Education Officer Fazia Baksh outlined the severe psychological and academic consequences of bullying, including anxiety, depression, and even suicidal ideation. Home Affairs Minister Oneidge Walrond proposed appointing anti-bullying leads in schools to coordinate with the Guyana Police Force’s Cyber-Crime Unit, ensuring swift responses to cyber-bullying incidents. She also advocated for clear protocols to manage bullying cases internally and escalate serious incidents to law enforcement when necessary. Minister Walrond highlighted the growing threat of cyber-bullying, which extends beyond school hours, and stressed the importance of protecting children’s dignity and mental health. The Guyana Police Force’s Cyber-Crime Unit, equipped with digital forensics expertise, plays a crucial role in addressing online harm, preserving evidence, and collaborating with international partners to remove harmful content. This comprehensive strategy aims to create a culture of respect, accountability, and well-being for all students in Guyana.