Dear Editor,
Our new Local Government Minister, Mrs. Priya Manickchand, remains one of the best Education Ministers Guyana has had in recent times. Many citizens across the country were, to a great extent, satisfied with the work she did to strengthen our education system. I, for one, am proud of her achievements and will continue to support her in her new office. However, there is a recent issue that I strongly disapprove of.
Her statement regarding the video circulating online of students dancing provocatively is deeply concerning. It appears—once again—that Mrs. Manickchand has patted the head of vulgarity. This is not the first time, as a similar response was given in relation to Skello’s music. Referring to the students’ actions as “your art” raises serious questions. My question is, does “your art” show respect and have boundaries? Or is “your art” playing with our boundaries and limits? We should ask ourselves why do we have limits, and boundaries? Do they exist to protect our children and society?
In her statement, the emphasis appeared to be placed more on the prevalence of cameras than on the inappropriate behaviour being displayed. “In this era, everyone has a cell phone and most of those have cameras.” This raises a troubling question: Is the message being sent that such behaviour is acceptable as long as it is not recorded on camera?
She then places a caveat in her statement to warn them as to how they are to consider their actions. “Consider twice before you do something, even if it is the practice of your art in dance form or what you broadcast in the spoken word or what you consume.” This seems less like a warning against the behaviour itself and more like advice on thinking twice because there are cameras around.
So when are we meant to learn about these acts—when statistics on HIV and AIDS are released?
She then refers to the students as “babies,” and of course they are. Which is why we must set boundaries and limits on our precious little ones. I wouldn’t even dare blame the media: Tik Tok or YouTube for this. The responsibility lies with us adults and leaders.
Lastly, I would like to see that our Local Gov’t Minister decrease and let Minister Parag increase. It is as though she wants to continue being the education minister in the shadow.
She should harmonize rather than stand out. Offer guidance rather than grandstanding. Our children deserve leaders who can uplift values and not blur them.