Yesterday, May16, the “International Day of the Boy Child” was celebrated worldwide under the theme: “Boosting Optimism, restoring Self-worth”, a Rights of the Child Commission (RCC) release stated.
The RCC is an independent, quasi-governmental body with constitutional powers, established under the Constitution of Guyana. The organisation was granted jurisdiction to investigate and resolve complaints that violate and omit the rights and interest of the child, ensuring that every child’s voice is heard on all levels in Guyana, in accordance with the Convention on Rights of the Child (UNCRC) Articles.
The statement bemoaned the less-than-stellar performance of boys in school as evidenced by the fact over the past few years, it is “regrettably apparent” that many are struggling. “The statistics in recent times and prior, reflect that some boys, notwithstanding the opportunities, are not demonstrating by virtue of their results, a determination to excel in all spheres. For reasons which will not be articulated or speculated on here, there has been a decline in educational excellence among some of our boy children; a lack of the once-expected intense interest in academics and in leadership.”
It went on to posit that in too many instances, the boy child lacks sufficient positive male influence, which through mentoring and general comportment, would guide him in the transition from boy to man. It was noted that there are some households where the male adult is a resident but is hardly present. “Much of the violence in our society is perpetrated by males; this is the example that our boy children are exposed to in the home and elsewhere. Boys need to be taught positive behaviour and attitude in showing respect to others, respecting themselves, and conducting themselves in a manner that encourages others to show them respect”, the RCC said
Reference was made to the legal system and the fact that the larger percentage of children in juvenile centres are male. Also noted was the fact that in some instances the infractions they are accused of are later found to have resulted from active influence and encouragement by an adult, most times a male adult.
The release however, sounded a word of hope and urged that society not be discouraged by all that has just been said, but rather, use the information to effect positive change. “Our boys have in 2022 performed creditably at all the major examinations. They have also been formidable members of STEM teams representing Guyana. We look forward to them in the not too distant future returning to being the formidable challengers in academia that we know they can be.”
It was iterated that boys must have the support of everyone – parents and society. Further, they need to be loved and nurtured and to be given guidance and support in all spheres. “In general, our world has become even more challenging to live in, and our boys must be encouraged to “step up” and be good boys, good men and good citizens. We must, as the theme says, ‘boost their optimism…’ and therefore restore their self – worth,” the release added.
