Mary Anane Awuku, CEO of Brain Hill International School, has firmly rejected the use of caning for student discipline. She stated that her school uses alternative methods to guide students. These include temporary removal from group activities or taking away privileges, like participation in break or co-curricular periods. Last year, the debate around corporal punishment continued, highlighting differing views on effective student management.
The school also prioritizes a wellness and counselling unit. This unit provides ongoing guidance rather than just one-off punishments. Mrs. Awuku explained that a child's behaviour is significantly influenced by their environment. She shared an example of a child exhibiting aggressive behaviour due to watching action movies with their father. This school year, educators continue to grapple with understanding the root causes of challenging behaviours.
Mrs. Awuku emphasized the necessity of collaborating with parents to address behavioural issues. She believes understanding a child's home environment is crucial for finding solutions. Children often mirror behaviours witnessed at home, including parental conflicts. Her views align with broader discussions on child psychology and effective upbringing. Ghana's education sector has seen various policy shifts aiming to improve learning environments.
She urged parents to play a more active role in their children's development. Education, she stated, is a shared responsibility between parents and schools. Mrs. Awuku expressed concern about parents who neglect to engage with their children's academic and behavioural progress. This lack of engagement makes addressing issues much harder for educators. Many parents struggle to balance work and school involvement, a common challenge in urban settings.
Close observation and concern from parents can greatly aid a child's development. Mrs. Awuku believes home issues directly impact school performance. Her approach seeks to create a supportive ecosystem for students. This focus on holistic development aims to foster well-rounded individuals ready for future challenges. The school's commitment to alternative discipline methods reflects a growing trend in educational best practices.