Education Minister Aseri Radrodro has raised significant concerns regarding the detrimental long-term effects of corporal punishment on children’s education and overall well-being. Speaking at the National Conversation on Corporal Punishment in Suva, he referenced a United Nations study involving over 10,000 students, which found that those who faced corporal punishment performed, on average, 15 percent lower on academic assessments and exhibited a 25 percent higher absenteeism rate compared to their peers who experienced non-violent disciplinary actions.
Radrodro highlighted that the anxiety and stress induced by corporal punishment can critically undermine children’s focus, instill fear, and lead to disengagement from their educational journeys. “The evidence is clear; while corporal punishment may result in short-term obedience, it compromises a child’s emotional health and academic progress,” he stated.
He underlined the importance of constitutional protections against violence and degrading treatment as well as the guidelines outlined in the UN Convention on the Rights of the Child. However, he emphasized the necessity of addressing the root causes of behavioral challenges in students. The Minister pointed out that evolving family dynamics and the growing impact of technology on children’s lives have led to noticeable changes in behavior.
To effectively tackle these issues, Radrodro announced that the Ministry has set up counseling centers and reinstated school chaplains to promote spiritual and emotional development among students. He urged parents and communities to engage more actively in fostering discipline at home, advocating for educators to serve as nurturing mentors rather than strict enforcers.
In line with previous discussions regarding discipline and child welfare, Radrodro called for continual dialogue among all stakeholders to explore constructive disciplinary methods that nurture children’s development while steering clear of violent practices. This collaborative approach holds the potential to transform student behavior management, creating a more supportive educational environment.
The Minister’s initiatives are a testament to a sustained commitment to child protection and educational reform, radiating a hopeful perspective for future generations in Fiji. By aligning educational practices with international human rights standards, there is significant potential for enhancing both academic performance and the emotional well-being of children across the nation.