Concerns have emerged regarding the potential reinstatement of corporal punishment under the proposed Education Bill 2025, particularly in relation to children whose parents are in recovery from drug addiction. This issue was brought to light during community consultations held in Vesidrua Village, Macuata.
Village headman Semisi Kotobalavu expressed his support for the proposal but emphasized the importance of implementing strict safeguards to protect vulnerable children. He pointed out that effective discipline should take into account a child’s background and the emotional well-being of their parents, not just focus on the behavior that needs correcting. “We agree to the proposal, but it needs to be closely reviewed on how it will be implemented and what effects it may cause. This will be different for parents who are or were once drug addicts. It must be appropriate and not excessive,” he stated, highlighting the unique challenges faced by recovering individuals who may experience increased emotional stress that can influence their parenting style.
Another participant, Viliame Bula, reinforced the need for more robust laws to tackle student behavior issues before discipline and respect diminish entirely in educational settings.
In response to the concerns raised during the consultations, a representative from the Education Ministry noted that a teacher’s primary role is to focus on teaching and learning. The representative cautioned that placing the responsibility of corporal punishment on teachers could have adverse effects, suggesting that discipline should ideally begin at home and not be solely the burden of educational staff.
The discussion reflects a growing awareness of the complexities surrounding discipline in education and the need to approach such proposals with careful consideration of the diverse backgrounds and challenges faced by families. As the debate continues, it underscores the importance of fostering a supportive environment for both children and parents navigating recovery.