Prime Minister Kamla Persad-Bissessar has issued a strong warning to parents, urging them to take full responsibility for disciplining and guiding their children before they grow up to face legal consequences. In a message delivered at the start of the new academic year, Persad-Bissessar emphasized that discipline, respect, and responsibility must be established in the home rather than being left entirely to educators.
“Do not dump your parental responsibilities onto teachers, that is your job, you made your children, it is not the teachers’ or anyone else’s responsibility to mind them,” the Prime Minister stated.
The Prime Minister pressed parents to actively monitor their children’s behavior, academic progress, and curriculum, while ensuring they are well-cared for and prepared for school. She also advised parents to listen to their children’s concerns and build collaborative relationships with teachers.
Persad-Bissessar warned of severe, long-term consequences for families if parents shirk these duties, noting that failing to instill discipline early could lead to heartbreak in the future.
“Do your part now with your children so that in years to come when they become adults, you won’t have to be at the courthouse in your old age trying to secure bail to get them released from incarceration,” she cautioned.
The Prime Minister’s address also focused heavily on school safety and the protection of educators. She called on principals and teachers to adopt a strict zero-tolerance approach toward disrespectful or misbehaving students and parents.
Emphasizing that school staff should never have to endure harassment, intimidation, or abuse, Persad-Bissessar urged educators to immediately contact the Trinidad and Tobago Police Service if they face threats or mistreatment.
Turning her attention to the student body, the Prime Minister warned that neglecting their studies would lead to a grueling future. She urged students to commit to their classes, respect school staff, practice self-discipline, and take personal ownership of their academic progress.
“Life is tough without an education, it will grind you down until you end up just surviving day to day and not actually living a satisfying wholesome life,” Persad-Bissessar warned. She concluded by noting that a solid education is essential for providing individuals with the options and resilience needed to successfully navigate life’s challenges.
