School bullying takes alarming turn

According to a news report, a total of 12 students of Rajshahi Collegiate School have been instructed not to attend their class for the next six months for their unruly behaviour. However, they will be allowed to appear in the final examinations. The school authorities claimed that they had to take the decision because of these students' reckless activities in the school. They were reportedly involved in beating other students, showing indecent attitude towards teachers and even smoking cigarettes openly on the school premises. The authorities think that the reason behind their moral degradation could be a long closure of educational institutions during the Covid-19 pandemic. Similar reports could be had from other educational institutions, too, which is very alarming for all of us.

The pandemic has left a lasting impact on education in a number of ways. With the resumption of in-person classes, teachers have been experiencing different kinds of issues. Bad behaviour among schoolchildren is one such problem. To deal with this, we, however, must not become intolerant. Rather, we should behave affectionately with them. These children, who were confined in their houses during the lockdowns and shutdowns, should be inspired to get engaged in sports, cultural activities and social works.

MA Islam,

Dhanmondi, Dhaka