The Opposition APNU/PNCR has raised concerns over a reported spike in troubling incidents affecting schools across Guyana, calling on the Government to respond more effectively to bullying, violence and alleged abuse.
At a press conference today, APNU Member of Parliament Dexter Todd said bullying must be addressed directly rather than reactively. He pointed to an increase in violent fighting and bullying both inside and outside schools, the discovery of weapons on school premises, and sexual assault claims involving teachers, which he described as a worrying trend.
Todd said the situation reflects several factors, including what he called the Government’s incompetence and lack of vision. He also alleged that misconduct attributed to some members of the Government had helped create a broader culture of such behaviour, which he said is now finding its way into schools. In addition, he cited what he described as the reality of many Guyanese struggling to live on low salaries amid a high cost of living, rising poverty, and increased pressure on families—conditions he said contribute to survival tactics, gang formation, and exploitation involving sex-for-grades allegations.
The Opposition MP said the country needs a strengthened incident reporting system to ensure students can safely report abuse and seek justice. He also urged the Ministry of Education to investigate the problems urgently and to ensure that the matters are properly addressed.
Todd called for improved security arrangements at schools, arguing that in many institutions students are able to enter and leave the premises freely. He said students should only leave by permission or at dismissal, and that during unusual hours students should not be seen leaving without supervision.
He rejected the idea that students caused the current circumstances and said the focus must shift from blame to responsibility. Todd said the Government should invest in guidance counselling, teacher training, community engagement, and policies that place students at the centre of recovery efforts, describing them as “young citizens” who require support and opportunity rather than punishment.
Todd noted that the Government has already launched a national anti-bullying campaign, but said the problem continues within the education system.
