Even one case is already too many. Yet our nation has been shaken by several heartbreaking incidents — children bullied to death, assaulted, and even murdered. In these cases, the perpetrators were also children.
These tragedies are not isolated. Violence does not occur in a vacuum. It is the end product of a long breakdown in our social, spiritual, community, and educational systems.
The Erosion Of The Educational Ecosystem
Teachers today are overburdened with administrative work. Their noble role as educators and moral guides has been overshadowed by bureaucracy and unrealistic expectations. Many now fear disciplining or guiding students, worried about complaints or viral backlash.
Some parents, too, have stormed schools to confront teachers, eroding respect for authority. This toxic dynamic leaves educators demoralised, students confused, and schools unsafe.
Caning and Harsh Punishment Are Not the Solution
Calls to restore corporal punishment are misplaced. Evidence consistently shows that physical punishment does not improve behaviour or achievement; instead, it worsens aggression, defiance, and psychological harm.
True discipline is built through respect, empathy, and consistent guidance, and not fear.
Discipline And Character Building Begin At Home
Home is the first school; parents are the first teachers. Children mirror what they see. Parental modelling of humility, patience, honesty, and compassion shapes lifelong character.
Parents must communicate and talk about respect, crisis-handling, empathy, and values. Let children know they have a safety net — adults they can trust when facing problems.
The Digital Dilemma
Social media is a double-edged sword: powerful yet toxic. Children navigate online worlds full of bullying, violence, and distorted values.
Parents and adults must actively guide them, teaching discernment, empathy, and self-control in the digital space.
Rebuilding Family Bonds
Family time builds emotional safety. Mealtimes and daily commutes should be used to talk, listen, and connect. Families can revive usrah-style discussions, sharing values, current issues, and lessons from faith.
This will foster empathy, confidence, and resilience.
The Role Of The Community
A safe environment for children requires an engaged community. Every neighbour, teacher, and adult plays a role in protecting our young.
Communities must:
- Care collectively for children: Treat every child as our shared responsibility.
- Observe and report early any signs of bullying, neglect, or abuse to school authorities or welfare agencies; silence enables harm.
- Build safe spaces: Community centres, playgrounds, and youth clubs that encourage positive interaction and mentorship.
Model kindness and civility in daily life, both offline and online. - Support parents and teachers through volunteerism, religious programmes, and awareness campaigns on mental health and child safety.
Spirituality And Moral Grounding
Education must nurture both intellect and soul. Our children need humility, respect, and faith as anchors.
Even the most devoted parents cannot control every outcome.
Conclusion: A Shared Responsibility
Creating safe schools and communities is not the job of teachers alone. It requires the united effort of parents, educators, community leaders, policymakers, and faith institutions.
Let us rebuild a culture of compassion, vigilance, and shared responsibility, so that every school becomes a sanctuary where children are protected, respected, and inspired to grow into righteous, resilient adults.
Dr Syed Abdul Khaliq is a consultant paediatrician and neonatologist at Hospital Assunta and a panel member of DoktorBudak.com.
- This is the personal opinion of the writer or publication and does not necessarily represent the views of CodeBlue.
