Gov’t tackles bullying, reckless driving & societal issues affecting children

The Government is addressing growing concerns over bullying, reckless driving and other issues affecting society, particularly children, through coordinated efforts across several ministries.

Minister of Human Services and Social Protection, Dr. Vindhya Persaud, on Monday said consultations are ongoing between the Ministries of Education, Human Services, and Home Affairs to find solutions and tackle these challenges.

Dr. Persaud noted that lives are being lost due to reckless driving, bullying, and fighting, and emphasised that addressing the root causes is a priority for the Government.

“It is heartbreaking to see children perpetrating violence on other children. This points to deeper issues, including what children are exposed to at home and how it affects the way they manage conflict and perceive themselves and others. We have to look at the underlying causes. It cannot be a singular approach or an approach in isolation,” she said, speaking to reporters on the sidelines of an event.

The Minister said the problems require more than a ‘quick fix’ and stressed the importance of engaging both schools and communities.

“You’re not only speaking to the child; you’re considering the mental health of everyone involved, the school environment, and the law,” Dr. Persaud added.

She highlighted that recent incidents involving children dying in road accidents and students engaging in bullying and fighting reflect a wider societal issue that requires coordinated intervention.

To support families, the ministry has strengthened its parenting programme, implemented over the past two years. The programme includes a parenting workbook designed to help families better engage with and support their children.

“How do you discipline without abuse? How do you support children with special needs? How do parents empower their children while addressing early childhood development, such as learning or developmental delays?” Dr. Persaud asked.

UNICEF is providing technical support for the programme, which includes in-person sessions. Parents can access the programme through the ministry or via community-based interventions.