There is a close co-relation between discipline and academic performance of students says Minister for Education, Heritage and Arts, Mahendra Reddy.

“It has been widely acknowledged that disciplinary issues affect academic performance of students. Research also proves this,” he said.

Mr Reddy was referring to Chris Baumann, et. (2016) in the article “School discipline, school uniforms and academic performance”, published in the International Journal of Educational Management, Vol. 30, Issue: 6, p.1017-1018. He said it provides evidence through a study.

While speaking to head teachers in Lautoka yesterday, Mr Reddy said: “There is a need to prioritise discipline of students with teaching and learning strategies.

“We need to focus on ways and means to raise children’s self-awareness, have clear rules and consistently enforce that with good discipline.”

Mr Reddy said creating a lively and accommodating atmosphere where students learn with passion and commitment would lead to better academic achievements.

“The ministry has its own stance on severe disciplinary issues and as such, has decided that we will immediately remove all students from our schools who pose a danger to fellow students or the teachers.

“Our schools are a place where children come for learning; parents send their child to get educated for a brighter future.

“We have our teachers to fulfil their dreams. As such, we will, under no circumstances, tolerate anyone disturbing the schools’ learning environment or distracting other children from fulfilling their dreams,” he said.

Edited by Jonathan Bryce

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