Minister to get report today on bullying at Fyzabad school

Education Minister Dr Nyan Gadsby-Dolly is expected to receive a report today (Thursday) regarding a nine-year-old pupil who has been suspended multiple times for allegedly terrorizing classmates at a primary school in Fyzabad.

The pupil attended classes yesterday without incident. On Tuesday, community police visited the school and spoke to the child.

A source at the Presbyterian Primary School Board of Education told Guardian Media that any extended suspension would require the ministry’s approval.

On Tuesday, the Minister said a child could be expelled if the conduct was severe enough.

However, she added that warning letters might be issued based on the guidelines outlined in the National Discipline Matrix.

Meanwhile, national security expert Garvin Heerah responded to the death of Jayden Lalchan, a 15-year-old student from St Stephen’s College, who ended his life because of bullying. This incident has led to an online petition calling for the removal of the alleged bully from the school.

Heerah described bullying as a serious national security threat.

“Bullying, whether physical, emotional, or cyber, is not just a schoolyard issue—it is a profound danger to the social fabric of Trinidad and Tobago,” he said.

“This recent tragedy underscores the failure of our schools to detect and address the harmful effects of bullying, which puts the mental health of our youth—and the future stability of society—at risk,” he added.

The former head of the National Operations Centre emphasized the urgency of addressing bullying at all levels.

“We must strengthen detection mechanisms within schools, provide training for teachers and administrators, and collaborate with law enforcement to tackle cyberbullying.

“Without immediate, decisive action, we are perpetuating cycles of emotional damage that can lead to crime, violence, and societal breakdown,” he explained.

Heerah also warned about the risk of copycat incidents following high-profile tragedies.

“The psychological impact on vulnerable young people can lead to imitative behaviour, creating a devastating ripple effect,” he noted, “This is not just a matter of school discipline—it is a critical issue of life and death, with severe consequences for our society.”

Calling for national unity, Heerah urged the authorities and communities to act.

“Our children must feel secure in every environment—whether at home, school, or online. It’s time for government agencies, schools, and communities to come together and confront the dangers of bullying head-on,” he said. “We cannot allow further loss of young lives.”

Heerah called for a national hotline and support networks to treat with bullying.

“An immediate response mechanism must be established, including a national anti-bullying hotline that students and parents can access 24/7. This will provide psychological and legal support to those in crisis, giving them a pathway to safety,” he said.

Heerah also said teachers and school administrators must receive specialised training to recognise, intervene, and report bullying behaviours.

“This includes creating partnerships with mental health professionals and social workers who can provide critical support,” he added.

If you or anyone you know has been battling thoughts of self-harm please contact Lifeline at 800-5588; Childline 800-4321 or the 24-Hour Suicide Prevention Hotline 800– COPE (2673).

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