Disciplinary issues in schools often originate from problems at home, according to Selina Kuruleca, the permanent secretary for the Education Ministry. She emphasized the importance of involving parents and the community in tackling these challenges as a vital component in addressing social issues effectively.
Kuruleca highlighted that children must learn values and morals at home before they enter the school environment. “Our teachers are doing the best they can, and we will continue to support them as much as we can,” she stated. However, she stressed the need for a community-wide approach that is multi-faceted and interdisciplinary.
According to Kuruleca, problems like indiscipline, drug abuse, and social issues such as HIV are indicators of larger societal concerns. She called for collaboration among various stakeholders, including the media, to combat these issues. The ministry also plans to reintroduce initiatives such as poster competitions, creative writing contests, speech and essay writing, and cadet programs to engage students in a positive manner.
“Parents must also attend parent-teacher interviews and communicate what is happening at home. Only then can we address the root causes of these problems,” she emphasized.
Ultimately, Kuruleca believes that fostering responsible, literate, and critical-thinking students requires a comprehensive effort that involves schools, families, and the wider community.