Ministry issues warning on social media-driven fight videos

The Ministry of Education Transformation has warned that pupils who arrange, take part in, film or share school fights online will face the full consequences of their actions, under its zero-tolerance policy on violence in schools.

In a release on Tuesday, the ministry said it had become aware of physical fights among pupils being deliberately organised, recorded and uploaded to social media. It said the practice endangered young people, breached school rules and regulations, and would attract disciplinary action for everyone involved.

The release said: “It has come to the attention of the Ministry of Education Transformation that physical fights among students are being deliberately organised, recorded and being uploaded to social media for public consumption.

“This is not only a dangerous practice, but it is in direct violation of the rules and regulations which govern our schools. The Ministry of Education Transformation has a zero-tolerance policy on violence in schools and students attending any education institution are expected to abide by these rules and keep the peace.”

The ministry said the policy applied across all educational institutions and that sanctions would extend beyond pupils directly involved in fights to those who planned them, recorded them or uploaded footage online.

“Students who are found to be participating in this type of activity, whether planned or otherwise, inclusive of those who record and upload, will all find themselves bearing the full consequences for their actions.”

Parents were urged to speak with their children about sound decision-making, safety and health, with the ministry saying that families remained essential partners in creating a positive school experience.

“Parents, we continue to appeal for you to speak to your children about making good decisions for your children’s safety and health,” the release stated. “You remain an essential partner of the ministry, teachers and principals in ensuring that your children receive the best education and reap the benefits of a positive school experience.”

While saying the incidents were not believed to be widespread across the school system, ministry officials said no fight was acceptable because of the potential consequences.

“While we do not believe these instances are widespread in our school system, we are of the view that one fight is one too many and is not worth the potential consequences,” the ministry noted.

The ministry said it continued to address such issues through youth development, social and emotional support, and community participation in structured school programmes.

“The Ministry of Education Transformation continues to provide the necessary Social and Emotional Learning in schools through the reinstitution of the Positive Vibe programme, the launch of the Community Service Learning in all secondary schools and the continued provision of service-based clubs and activities that help to nurture resilient, contributing global citizens raised with Barbadian values.”

It also commended the majority of pupils who acted responsibly and made constructive contributions to their schools and communities.

“To our students who continue to contribute positively to their schools and the wider community, we see you and laud your efforts in helping us build the number one education system in the world.”

(RR)