Culture of crudeness and indiscipline in schools

THE EDITOR, Madam:

It seems as if Jamaica has found itself on a steady diet of indiscipline and crudeness among children, both in the classroom and on the streets. The once-sacred space of learning has now become a theatre of disorder where respect for authority, modesty, and civility are treated as outdated relics of a forgotten past.

Almost daily, we are confronted by disturbing images and reports: students bringing weapons to school, using obscene language, fighting teachers, and displaying blatant disregard for the rules. In some institutions, the dress code has lost all meaning — tight-fitted pants, short skirts, baggy trousers, flashy jewellery, body piercings, and elaborate hairstyles have taken the place of neat uniforms and disciplined presentation. Sadly, many of these students parade fashionable appearances while carrying what can only be described as empty minds.

This growing culture of crudeness did not develop overnight. It is the product of years of moral erosion, where home, church, and school have failed to reinforce discipline, respect, and responsibility consistently. Too many parents now excuse bad behaviour rather than correct it; too many educators are left demoralised and under-supported; and too many of our leaders look the other way, preferring to manage crises rather than prevent them.

Schools must once again become sanctuaries of learning, not battlegrounds of indiscipline. Discipline is not oppression – it is the foundation of self-control, respect, and achievement. The Ministry of Education, along with parents, churches, and community groups, must join hands to restore values-based education. Students must understand that education is not merely about passing exams – it is about building character, conscience, and citizenship.

If we fail to act decisively, we will continue to produce generations of well-dressed but empty-headed youth – brilliant in style but bankrupt in substance.

RYAN REDDIE