The indiscipline in our Senior High Schools triggered more in the public and private universities of late. As the Good Book (Bible)says, “train up a child in the way he should go and when he is old he will not depart from it.”. Who should we put the blame on?
In my view, the Ministry of Education and the Ghana service must put their put their feet down to curb this menace by coming out with clear rules and regulations and expectations, establish and communicate to the schools a code of conduct that outlines acceptable behavior.
There is a need for consistent enforcement that calls for disciplinary measures with fairness, devoid of public inference. Ghana Education Service must use a positive reinforcement that must encourage good behaviour through rewards and recognition programmes in our schools. I have come to realise that our engagement programmes are overlooked.
The curriculum for schools and institutions must pave the way for the implementation of extra curriculum activities that promote teamwork and responsibility.
The guidance and counselling units of all the levels must regularly be in our schools, rather than being in the offices . All schools must create an office within for the counsellor for effective practices where students leaders will be taught conflict resolution after a period of training to know how to handle dispute constructively at their levels.
One other school of thought is parental involvement when indiscipline issues emanate, which will encourage them to support school policies at home.
Our school authorities should monitor students regularly, assess their behaviours, and adapt strategies as needed, including staff training on effective classroom management and discipline strategies. When these strategies are implemented, it will create discipline and a conducive learning environment.
Furthermore, there is a need for a collaboration between school authorities and parents, as mentioned earlier, shall foster a supportive educational environment that involves regular communication, involvement in decision making, and participation in school events.
Public expectation is Ghana Education Service to restructure parent association meeting (PA).back to an association (PTA) that will foster or promote volunteerism, feedback mechanisms. This partnership will also address concerns and build a stronger school community.
Parents Teacher Association (PTA) plays a crucial role in curbing indiscipline by fostering collaboration between parents and educators. In the past, PTAs set clear expectations, looking at the challenges the school faces and ensuring consistency at home and school devoid of many interactions , making policies more effective.
In addition, the parent teacher association (PTA) provided more support, offering resources supplement government efforts as compared to the new policy on Parents Association (PA)
It also noted that a few infrastructure projects were built by the PTAs, which accommodates teachers on campuses. There was also a flexibility in administration by heads of our schools.
Finally, more emphasis must be laid on a speech and prize days as compulsory. Celebrating students who demonstrates good behaviour sets a standard for others to emulate, encouraging role models that’s awarding students for achievement.
Written by: Rev. Jonathan Bettey Former GES PRO.
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