Misbehaving students prompt pleas for adult accountability

Barbados is confronting a growing issue of lewd and disruptive behavior among schoolchildren on public buses, prompting urgent calls for intervention from government officials, union leaders, and parent advocates. Minister of Youth, Sports, and Community Empowerment Charles Griffith, Congress of Trade Unions and Staff Associations of Barbados (CTUSAB) General Secretary Dennis Depeiza, and Paula-Ann Moore, spokesperson for the Group of Concerned Parents, have all emphasized the need for immediate action, though their perspectives on the root causes and solutions differ. Griffith attributes the problem to a breakdown in parenting and community mentorship, advocating for enhanced parental training, peer support networks, and intergenerational guidance. He stressed the importance of strong Parent-Teacher Associations (PTAs) and the involvement of retired elders as mentors to instill positive values. Depeiza, however, points to a lack of enforcement and adult accountability as key factors, warning that without decisive action, the situation will worsen. He highlighted longstanding issues on ZR minibuses that have now affected the broader Transport Board system. Moore described the behavior as deeply concerning and urged both children and adults to take responsibility. She emphasized the need for societal unity in modeling appropriate behavior and enforcing zero tolerance for misconduct. A female student commuter shared firsthand accounts of disruptive behavior, including instances where bus drivers had to intervene. All stakeholders agree that a comprehensive, community-driven approach is essential to address this pressing issue.