Start mandatory parenting skills workshops

THE EDITOR, Madam:

The recent conflict at Godfrey Stewart High has brought into sharp focus indiscipline in the Jamaican society. It is painful to see the way we handle our differences. We need a better way out of this terrible predicament. Far too many parents and guardians do not know the way to instil discipline in their children. If the children grow up without discipline then the vicious cycle will continue.

We have strayed far from our roots. Our African ancestors have it right, “it takes a village to raise a child”, and our motto “Out of many one people”. We must work together to eradicate this malaise. Isn’t it possible that we could train parents and guardians via the school? Why not institute mandatory training for parents every term? If such a programme already exists then it should be expanded to every institution. In this training parents would learn the art of parenting/instilling discipline. The session should be structured in such a way that parents will want to be there and not miss any session.

We can do this if we put our minds to it. Knowledge is power and if we equip parents and guardians we will no longer be victims. As we journey to a better future we can adopt the African way of Ubuntu (spirit of kindness) which used to be evident in our society and needs to be rekindled. As Louise Bennett-Coverley said: “Howdy an tenky you nuh bruk nuh square.”

Let us start now.

CHRIST EREM