Dear Editor,

Bullying remains a persistent issue affecting our children, which has now been thrust into public attention through recent social media videos.

As of March 2026, the Child Protection and Family Services Agency (CPFSA) reported 49 bullying incidents, with numbers continuing to rise. On Saturday, April 18 a disturbing video surfaced of a Jamaica College student being assaulted by peers: One repeatedly slapped him while another struck him with a belt. Such incidents raise urgent concerns about student safety.

Bullying also disproportionately affects LGBTQ youth. Data from the Equality for All Foundation’s 2024 Needs Assessment Survey shows that 47.2 per cent (129 individuals) reported experiencing bullying, with 83.7 per cent of these cases occurring during high school. This highlights a critical developmental period when greater care and intervention are needed.

We must ask: What conditions foster such violence among young people, and what are schools and parents doing to address it? These incidents reveal gaps in how children are taught to manage conflict and regulate emotions.

A shift in approach is needed. Rather than relying on reactive, punitive measures, schools must adopt holistic strategies that address culture, classroom practices, and policy. The Equality for All Foundation recommends implementing individualised and peer-led interventions to provide emotional and social support. Training for both staff and students is essential to better identify and respond to bullying while fostering a school-wide anti-bullying culture.

Finally, promoting consistent reporting mechanisms is key. When students feel safe to report incidents, it not only addresses harm, but also deters future abuse.

Adrian McCarthy

Programmes assistant

Equality For All Foundation

adrian@equalityjamaica.org