The Ministry of Education, Skills, Youth and Information (MOESYI) has launched “BullyProofJA”, a digital campaign aimed at tackling the devastating impact of bullying in schools and communities across Jamaica.

Through the rallying cry ‘Block the Hate, Build the Love,’ MOESYI is affirming its commitment to ensuring that every child feels safe, supported, and valued, accordimng to a statement from the Ministry.

“BullyProofJA” represents a commitment to building resilience, fostering empathy, and promoting a culture of respect and inclusion. To be “BullyProof” means equipping students with the confidence, knowledge, and tools to recognise bullying, respond effectively, and support others, while empowering schools, parents, and communities to actively prevent and address harmful behaviours,” it said.

The campaign follows the recent proclamation of October 7 as National Anti-Bullying Day, which the ministry notes was successfully championed by the Child Protection and Family Services Agency (CPFSA) and MOESYI. The proclamation, signed by Governor General  Sir Patrick Allen, reaffirms the nation’s collective resolve to confront bullying in all its forms and to safeguard the dignity and well-being of children and young people.

Minister of Education, Dr Dana Morris Dixon, said the Ministry is determined to confront the issue in a sustained and collaborative way.

“We cannot ignore the pain of those who feel voiceless and unsafe in their own schools. Through BullyProofJA, we are stepping forward with urgency, compassion, and determination to ensure that every child knows they are not alone, and that their well-being matters,” she said.

Minister Morris Dixon further explained that the campaign is not only about raising awareness but also about inspiring action and empowering students to speak out.

“Too many of our students are being targeted because of their appearance, background, academic performance, or even differences in personality and abilities, and this is unacceptable. We are urging every child who is bullied to speak up and report it to their principal, guidance counsellor, and parents. No child should suffer in silence. Through BullyProofJA, we are equipping students with the tools to stand against bullying and building communities rooted in respect and empathy, where every child feels safe, valued, and heard,” she added.

Permanent Secretary in the Ministry, Dr Kasan Troupe highlighted the importance of a collective response rooted in care.

“Our children deserve to learn in environments that nurture their potential, not diminish it. BullyProofJA is a call to action for teachers, parents, and community leaders to come together in support of our students. By blocking the hate and building the love, we can strengthen resilience, promote inclusion, and give every child the opportunity to thrive,” Dr Troupe said.

The BullyProofJA campaign will leverage digital platforms to spark meaningful conversations, share valuable resources, and mobilise communities into action. Through partnerships with influencers, educators, stakeholders, and the wider public, the Ministry aims to shed light on the harmful effects of bullying while building a movement grounded in compassion, courage, and care for every student.

In addition, the MOESYI, through the CPFSA, will lead a series of anti-bullying activities across the island throughout the academic year. Schools will host assemblies, workshops for principals, deans of discipline, and teachers, as well as creative showcases designed to promote empathy and positive peer relationships. A national art and essay competition will also be launched to give students a voice in the movement.

Beyond the classroom, communities will be engaged through outreach initiatives for parents, caregivers, and local leaders, while members of the clergy will be encouraged to use their pulpits to reinforce messages of compassion and unity.

The Ministry is urging all Jamaicans to stand together, support students, and help create a nation where no child feels invisible, and every child knows they are seen, valued, and loved.