Dear Editor,
RECENTLY, video recordings have gone viral on social media of schoolchildren involved in unfortunate situations, some being violent and disrespectful. It must be noted that such events are not widespread across the education system. However, efforts must still be made to curb such behaviour.

The Ministry of Education will continue to collaborate with parents and other stakeholders to address these issues. Editor, the Education Ministry is currently strengthening its school support unit with the aim of addressing social and other challenges which have no place in the school system.

The Education Ministry is cognisant that more needs to be done by all parties in the education process if tangible outcomes are to be derived.
Editor, this is not the time to point fingers, but it is an opportunity for greater collaboration between the schools and parents.

It is on this note Editor, that the MoE is urging parents to engage their children frequently when they are at home. Editor, the word ‘engage’ was chosen deliberately because it encompasses a number of areas.
The MoE is asking parents to check frequently on how their children are doing in school. We must talk to our children. As parents, they will tell you things in that informal setting that you would not have known ordinarily.

Parents, foster relationships with your child’s teacher(s) so that you can be swiftly updated on anything noteworthy that is happening at school, or if you need to visit the institution.
Ask for the school’s telephone number and call randomly to be updated. When children are aware that you are monitoring them, they are less likely to become problematic.

Most importantly, editor, the evidence has shown overwhelmingly that with the involvement of parents in the education process, the child’s academic performance improves significantly.
Parents, you are at liberty to go to their schools and hear from their teachers as it relates to their academic performance and their general behaviour at school. No one can disallow you from visiting the school to check on your children’s welfare.

Parents, know who your children’s friends are so that you are aware of the company they keep. You need to keep track of the places they normally will go when they are socialising. This is by no means a form of infringement, but rather necessary steps that are integral to raising children of good quality.

Parents and guardians, the Ministry of Education cannot do it alone; your support is vital. Additionally, it is important for parents to continue to impress upon children the importance of good manners, respect for themselves, their peers and any other person they interface with.

The Ministry of Education is aware of the sacrifices parents continue to make daily in ensuring that their children are in school. The Education Ministry will continue to work with parents, communities and other stakeholders to ensure that our children become productive citizens, contributing to the development of self and country.

Regards,
Public Relations Department
Ministry of Education