Dear Editor,

The education system and the development of children as it relates to academics in Jamaica can be described as deteriorating. The majority of children are no longer interested in being involved in age-appropriate activities, especially academic activities.

Unfortunately, some citizens are of the belief that the educational needs of a child are to be met solely by their teachers; however, this is a misconception.

Children model the behaviour of the people in their environment, especially those they are drawn to because of the desire to live like them. As such, society is a major influence on the behaviour emulated by children. It is the responsibility of society to adopt behaviour that preserves the Jamaican culture, such as being hard-working people of integrity and displaying love for one another, in order to get children to start readopting behaviour that is morally upright inside and outside of the school setting.

The notion that “It takes a village to raise a child” is not just a saying, it is indeed a necessity for the holistic development of children. As citizens of Jamaica who want to ensure the continuous safety and preservation of culture, assets, and the environment, it is imperative that all stakeholders — parents, teachers, the Government, private and public sectors, and ordinary men and women — step in and play their part in guiding the younger generation in ways they ought to and holding each other accountable when it comes to the well-being of children.

Remember, the children are our future, and every child can learn. What they learn is dependent on the behaviour being modelled for them.

Vannessa Hill

letsgetit.4win@gmail.com