Director of Education Urges National Unity in Addressing Youth Violence
Clare Browne, the Director of Education, has voiced his deep concerns regarding the alarming rise in violence among the nation’s youth. Speaking at the opening of the annual Educator’s Enrichment Programme, organized by the Ministry of Education, Browne emphasized the urgent need for collective action to address this growing issue as the 2024-25 academic year approaches.
In his speech, Director Browne highlighted his distress over the “wanton disregard for life, peace, and liberty” that has erupted across the nation, with youth not only being the victims but also the perpetrators of violence. He expressed his sorrow for the tragic loss of young lives over the recent summer vacation, extending his sympathies to the families affected.
Browne made a passionate plea to the nation’s young people, urging them to “think before you act,” and to listen to the voice of reason rather than resorting to violence, which has led to devastating consequences. He acknowledged the complexity of the issue, noting that while many theories attempt to explain the root causes, the need for immediate and unified action is indisputable.
The Director also revealed that the Ministry of Education is collaborating closely with law enforcement agencies to develop strategies aimed at curbing youth violence. This collaboration is set to continue with a meeting scheduled for Thursday to discuss further initiatives.
Beyond addressing the immediate crisis, Director Browne outlined the Ministry of Education’s long-term vision for the education sector. He shared details of a sector plan that includes eight strategic imperatives aimed at guiding education policy and programs through 2030. These imperatives focus on modernizing educational spaces, enhancing leadership quality, strengthening teacher development, and increasing access to technical, vocational, and tertiary education, among other goals.
The Educator’s Enrichment Programme, which brings together educators from across the nation, continues to play a vital role in fostering the professional growth of teachers and enhancing the overall quality of education. The program concludes today, with sessions being held at various centers throughout the country.
As Antigua and Barbuda face the challenges posed by youth violence, Director Browne’s call for unity and decisive action resonates as a crucial step towards safeguarding the nation’s future.
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It will be brilliant if we have experts in charge of solving this matter but everyone contribute. A lot of things being used by untrained folks are making it worse for youths and only pushing them to commit more crimes.
Curfew for instance should not be the first option to stop youths from committing crimes. There should be programs in schools that connects children with local role models and celebrities.
Programs that provides extra-curriculum activities, in which we encourage youths to participate in, so it is a decision they made to stay on they right path. Not forced inside the home and labeled to be a deviant/criminal for leaving their home at particular times (and we know innocent youths will wrongfully accused and penalize in this curfew policy.
Also, more focus should be on encouraging society and parents into properly managing the home and children, to encourage a healthy home and community, instead of quickly jumping to criminalized or negatively labeling youths who leave the home in violation of a curfew.
I think a lot of things can be done strategically, meaning others things should be tried first instead of these, “let us criminalize and enhance punishment” nonsense that untrained people always quickly run to.
Get help from experts. NOW Mr. PM. We need to stop following St. Kitts and Nevis and use strategies specific to the community of Antigua and Barbuda.
But a he have them boys a go school with them hair messy, unkempt and doesn’t believe in corporal punishment! trying to “americanize” our Wadadli youth….too late, too late shall be the cry.
Trupz!!
The chickens have come home to rooost!!
Our children need to feel the warmth of the village,
Otherwise they will burn it to feel it.🤔
He is a very intelligent man ,but he don’t have any leadership skills.
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