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Peer pressure- the quiet storm which makes a large impact. I am D’Marco Wells, student of C. V Bethel Senior High School, and a proud citizen of the Bahamas. Peer pressure is a constant issue within our school community. Here is a short video which speaks more in debt about its affects.

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At my school in Spanish Wells, the problem of poor waste management has become increasingly noticeable. Papers, food wrappers, and plastic bottles can often be seen scattered around the hallways, the yard, and other common areas. This situation not only makes the school environment look messy, but also creates an unpleasant space for students and teachers.

Poor waste management affects more than just the appearance of the campus—it also impacts the health and safety of everyone who uses it. When trash is not disposed of properly, it can attract pests, create bad odors, and increase the risk of illness. In addition, garbage that ends up outside of the bins can eventually reach the natural environment of Spanish Wells, harming marine life and polluting our beautiful beaches.

That is why it is so important for every student to take responsibility for throwing away their trash in the proper place. Keeping the school clean is a task that benefits all of us and shows respect for our surroundings. With just a little effort from everyone, we can create a healthier, more organized, and more enjoyable environment for learning.

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Hello, my name is Armarion Williams and I am a form 5 student attending the St. John's Christian Secondary School. My school is located in Brother's, St. John's

Grenada. I would like to speak on the fact of the disgusting behavior students enact in school. My school is usually a clean school and we have cleaners who also aid in cleaning the school but throughout my time at this school I have seen how filthy students can be. I have seen students eat and intentionally littered. When they finished eating their lunches they through the paper on the ground. Also when they finish drinking they throw the bottles anywhere. Some children also leave garbage in their desk even though there are bins everywhere even in classrooms. Some students also through garbage on the ground in their class room and act like it normal for them. These behavior's sickens me, it shows they have no home training, no decency, etiquette and no morals. There have been countless times they are spoken to and even people coming to our school coming to talk to them about littering but it never stops. It seems talking isn't the way and punishment might be needed to stop this kind of behavior.

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Bullying and Violence at the Anglican High School, Tanteen, St. George

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Bullying and Violence at the Anglican High School, Tanteen, St. George

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My name is Shermicah Richards, and I am a form 5 student at the Anglican High School. The challenge that my school is facing is bullying and violence against one another. My school is a very influential school that has decades of history, but even in a school like ours, bullying and violence can happen, and when they do it affects more than just one person. They affect the whole school.

Bullying is when someone keeps picking on another person. It can be name-calling, teasing, spreading rumours, or leaving someone out on purpose. Sometimes it happens online, through messages or social media. Violence can be physical, like fighting or emotional, like threatening someone or making them feel unsafe. These things make students feel scared, sad, or alone. They can stop us from enjoying school, learning well, or feeling confident. This will also begin to hinder the other students as well, because this will have the teachers more focused on solving the issue than teaching the remainder of the students. This is going to be a problem as it removes constructive time for the other students where they could've been learning.

Bullying and violence in the school will also begin to change how the public views the school. It will affect the school's reputation, and as a school with over a century of history and legacy to uphold. Violence will impact and tarnish the legacy left behind by past students. Our school also benefits a lot from donations from people and past students, and if the reputation is horrible due to the violence and bullying happening, they may be more hesitant to donate.

As a student, I believe we all have a part to play. We can choose to be kind. We can include others. We can speak up when something feels wrong. We can help make Anglican High School a place where everyone feels welcome, respected, and safe. It’s not just about rules; it’s about making the Anglican High School a respectable and comfortable place to learn and grow.

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At Genesis Academy, one of the major problems we face is littering and the improper disposal of waste. This issue doesn’t just affect the person who chooses to litter it affects everyone around them. Recently, we had a full assembly dedicated to addressing this problem, which shows how serious it has become within our school community.

The situation has gotten worse because many students don’t take pride in keeping their environment clean. Instead, they take pride in the wrong things. When it’s time to pick up trash even if the garbage isn’t theirs some students feel they are “too good” to touch it. This mindset is part of the reason why the littering problem continues to grow.

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Substance Abuse Of Teenagers Under Academic Pressure in Society.

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Substance Abuse Of Teenagers Under Academic Pressure in Society.

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In Guyana's society today, the Gen Z generation, especially teenagers, are seen accountable for falling to substance abuse because of high academic pressure. Even though the environment of Queen's College does not foster any form of substance abuse, this issue has been labelled as a ongoing worldwide challenge that deserves public awareness. As students of educational institutions, we all have been subconsciously acclimated with some form of academic pressure, whether imposed on us through internal or external influences perhaps your parents or self-expectations. Whatever the requisite challenge persons face be it physically, mentally or emotionally, they outlet this stress in many ways one of which is a prevailing issue we have within our school system. According to a study done in 2015 by PMC PubMed Central it stated that in students grades ninth through twelfth, having lower average grades were significantly associated with binge drinking and use of marijuana. This problem continues to remain such a prominent issue within our society to this date partly led on by its social encouragement and acceptance by other adolescents and even adults, we see many social media platforms widespread across the world which are able to influence young minds. Some of its encouragement is brought right within a physical space such as peer pressure who push its narrative deeming it socially acceptable. To combat this challenge within our school systems we first need to be cognizant of its existence, the lack of this is apparent as seen with the absence of dedicated school guidance counselors to help students who struggle with these hardships. The process not only starts here but it requires greater source of intervention to ensure not only the safeguard of students in the educational system but to provide proper education to those involved.

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My name is Kezia Andrew, and I am a 15-year-old Fifth Form student at the Anglican High School in Tanteen Terrace, St. George. Even though my school is known as one of the best on the island for both academics and sports, there is a serious problem that is getting worse every day—the amount of violence among the students.

Almost every day you can see or hear some kind of quarrel happening somewhere around the school. Sometimes it even turns into fighting. What makes it even worse is that a lot of these fights happen outside the school compound, on the public streets, where everybody can see. This really damages the school’s reputation and makes us look like we don’t have any pride or respect.

The students who choose to behave like this don’t seem to think about how their actions affect the rest of us. Their reckless behaviour reflects badly on the school and even on themselves. They don’t stop to consider how their actions might make other students feel—students who just want to come to school in peace and focus on their education.

What’s even more unfair is that the students who behave well end up paying the price for the ones who keep causing trouble. We have to deal with stricter rules, longer assemblies, and lectures about things we didn’t do.

The level of violence among some students is becoming a serious issue. It makes the school environment uncomfortable, spoils the school’s good name, and stresses out students who are just trying to learn. Something needs to change, because it’s really not fair that everyone has to suffer because of a few who refuse to behave properly.

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Stop Bullying: Cyber, Social, Physical and Verbal

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Stop Bullying: Cyber, Social, Physical and Verbal

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Hi! My name is Talisa Johnson, the Head Girl at the great C.V. Bethel Senior High School located in Nassau, Bahamas.💙💚 I want to discuss the topic of bullying in schools. Bullying hits like a quiet storm in the hallways, from the tiny desks of first grade straight through the senior-year grind, shaping teens in ways adults often underestimate. It tanks confidence, derails focus, and leaves kids carrying invisible bruises that show up in slipping grades and sleepless nights. I’ve seen it up close back in middle school, I used to shrink into myself every time someone spread rumors about me or lied on my name, I hid it well like I as supposed to laugh it off. I didn’t at first. I just learned to walk faster, hide deeper, speak softer. That shouldn’t be the legacy of anyone’s school years. When we shut bullying down, we’re not just enforcing rules: we’re building a culture where every student can breathe easy, think clearly, and show up as their whole self. Creating a safe space in schools is the foundation for teens to grow, glow, and actually learn without feeling like school is a battlefield. ☮️🎓📚

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Before I begin my name is Akeela kellman and I am from Guyana

“Behind every quiet hallway is a student carrying more than just a backpack.”

The Challenge I Identified was Student Mental Health in My School Community

One challenge I want to understand better in my school is the decline in student mental health, especially related to stress, anxiety, and academic pressure.

Why this issue exists (origin)

In recent years, students have been facing increasing workloads, high expectations, and social pressure. According to many educational studies, these factors have intensified after the COVID-19 pandemic, which disrupted learning routines and created additional emotional strain. Even now, students are still adjusting to academic and social demands that feel heavier than before.

Who this affects

Students experiencing anxiety, stress, or burnout

Teachers, who see the effects on performance and behavior

Families, who may struggle to support overwhelmed students

The school environment, as mental health influences attendance, focus, and overall well-being

Why it matters

Student mental health affects learning, safety, relationships, and long-term success. When students feel mentally unwell, grades drop, motivation decreases, and social isolation increases. Addressing this issue matters because mentally healthy students are more likely to stay in school.

To help address the growing challenge of student mental health in our school community, I propose that we begin by ensuring that every school has access to more trained and qualified counselors who can provide consistent emotional and psychological support to students. In addition, regular workshops should be offered to both teachers and parents so they can better understand the signs of mental health issues, learn effective strategies for supporting teenagers, and know when and how to seek professional help. Finally, I recommend that the Ministry of Education implement monthly wellness checks for all students, allowing trained staff to monitor students’ emotional well-being, identify concerns early, and create a safer, more supportive school environment. Together, these steps would strengthen the support system around students and make mental health a priority in our education system.

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At Wesley College in St. George’s, Grenada, we identified the challenge of students struggling with positive conflict resolution, as many disagreements often escalate into arguments or physical fights. After speaking with teachers, students, and our school’s guidance counsellor, and reviewing local news reports and regional youth-violence data, we learned that most conflicts begin with misunderstandings, teasing, and poor emotional control. This issue affects the entire school community; creating unsafe environments, disrupting learning, and damaging relationships, making it important to address. Using these reliable sources and experiences, we created this project to highlight the need for better communication skills, peaceful problem-solving, and emotional awareness among our students.

Wesley College, Grenada

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Dantae Davis (C.I. Gibson Sr. High School, New Providence, Bahamas) 

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Dantae Davis (C.I. Gibson Sr. High School, New Providence, Bahamas) 

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Absenteeism has become a growing concern at C.I. Gibson Senior High School, affecting both students’ performance and the school’s overall progress. When students miss classes frequently, they fall behind in their work, earn lower grades, and struggle to stay connected with their teachers and classmates. This not only weakens academic achievement but also reduces motivation and discipline.

At C.I. Gibson, teachers and staff work hard every day to ensure that no student is left behind, but absenteeism makes this mission more difficult. To overcome this challenge, students must take responsibility for attending school regularly, while parents and the school continue providing the support and guidance needed. By working together, we can reduce absenteeism and help every Falcon stay focused, stay present, and succeed.

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Blue Illustrative Digital Marketing Tips Poster (1)

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Bullying Digital Flyer (Delvon Barton - Temple Christian High School)

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Bullying Digital Flyer (Delvon Barton - Temple Christian High School)

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Today students not only at Temple Christian High School but all around the Bahamas deal with the issue of bullying. Some students today are bullied for their economic status which they can not control. Another issue is clothing some students look down upon others because of attire. Bullying has been on the rise for some time now but it is our duty to be there for those students that are affected. Please enjoy this flyer curated to help students grasp the concept of bullying. Along with its psycho-social disadvantages.

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Title: “Growing Black Point: More Farming, Better Shops, Stronger Community”

1. What challenge do I want to transform?

Black Point needs more local farming and bigger, better-equipped shops and buildings. These improvements would help the community become more self-sufficient, healthier, and better prepared for future growth.

2. What solutions have already been tried?

Some residents already practice small-scale backyard farming.

A few local shops provide basic items, but they are limited in size and supplies.

Other Bahamian communities, like those on Long Island and Andros, have expanded farming projects and built larger community stores—showing that this idea can work.

These examples inspire us to do the same in Black Point.

3. Who would benefit and how?

Students: Learn farming skills, healthy eating habits, and entrepreneurship.

Families: Access more fresh produce and a greater variety of goods without traveling.

Local farmers: Earn income and grow their businesses.

Shop owners: Expand their stores and offer more services.

The whole community: More jobs, more local food, stronger economy.

4. What concrete actions can be done from our school and community?

1. Start a community garden or school farm with student volunteers.

2. Partner with farmers in Exuma for training sessions.

3. Hold fundraising events (bake sales, fairs, raffles) to support building upgrades.

4. Ask local government and businesses for support or small grants.

5. Create a plan for expanding local shops, including better space for goods and storage.

5. What resources, people, or spaces already exist?

Open land areas suitable for farming.

Experienced local farmers who can teach youth.

School spaces that can be used for small gardening plots.

Community members willing to help with building projects.

Local government offices that support development projects.

6. Expected results (short-term and long-term):

Short-Term:

A small but active community or school garden.

More awareness of the importance of local farming.

Early fundraising efforts for shop expansion.

Students gaining hands-on experience.

Long-Term:

A larger farming network producing fresh food for the whole community.

Bigger and better shops providing more goods locally.

Increased jobs and economic growth.

A stronger, more independent Black Point.

7. Who could join this proposal?

Students: Gardening, volunteering, spreading awareness.

Teachers: Guiding projects, planning lessons on agriculture and business.

Families: Offering support, sharing skills, donating materials.

Farmers: Training and advising young people.

Local business owners: Participating in shop expansion plans.

Community leaders and government authorities: Approving spaces, giving resources, and promoting development.

Conclusion

“My proposal aims to increase local farming and develop bigger shops in Black Point, Exuma. By using our land, working together with farmers, students, families, and leaders, we can grow more fresh food, support local businesses, and strengthen our community. This project benefits everyone and helps build a better future for Black Point.”

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Hello, my name is Tana Thompson, I am from the Co-operative republic of Guyana and a Student at the New Amsterdam Secondary School completingthe CAPE program. I will be speaking about the Insufficient street lighting in Lovely Lass (my village/community), especially on the back streets and the pathway leading toward the backdam, which creates unsafe conditions at night.

Brief Investigation

From discussions with the residents, students, and working adults, it was evident that the absence of lighting creates a lot of discomfort when walking in the night. Various students who return home in the evening also told me that they face fear, as do adults who arrive home late from work when passing through these dark areas.

Residents also complained of frequent loitering, including groups of men smoking

marijuana in unlit corners. This heightens the sense of insecurity among women,

children, and teenagers.

This is an issue that matters because good lighting promotes visibility, inhibits

loitering and unsafe behavior, minimizes potential for crime, and allows the

community members-school students in particular-to travel safely after dark.

How I Got Informed:

I got informed through:

-Interviews with residents who walk these

routes at night.

-Observations of how dark and isolated these areas become after sunset.

-Personal experience, as a student who used to attend a private school,

and often arrived home between 8 pm to midnight, as a young girl walking in

these poorly lit streets, I felt unsafe and anxious, which helped me understand

the seriousness of the problem.

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My name is Issac Wright, and I am a student of Genesis Academy. I see that one of the problems at Genesis Academy is people having lunch that is not the healthiest from the food shop there. Daily or most of the times I see people who get their food from the shop consistently with fried chicken and fries. It is also important for athletes at the school to eat healthy, because the food you put in your body depends on how you perform. It is like putting bad gas in a good car and then expecting the car to perform at its best.

Proposal: My proposal is for the shop to provide either healthier food overall or a good balance between the two.

Solution 1: People bring their own lunches, because it taste better and is healthier.

Solution 2: People make sure to buy something healthier when it is available to do so.

Benefits to Students:

Students will benefit by this by not having to rely on themselves to bring good and healthy lunch and be able to count on the school to prepare something tasty and healthy for them. It will also increase their performance in class as well, as it is proven that eating healthy food helps you to think better and more clear according to Harvard.

Who can Help?

Teachers: Teachers can help by enforcing the school to make more healthy lunch options and add suggestions. Teachers can also inform students on the importance of having good nutrition and the affects of junk food on the body.

Students: Students who are active in clubs can also have a day of where they either raise money to the support of better food being produced at the school or they can have a day where they have a small food fest to show the different types of food that are low in calories and have high protein and vitamins that still taste just as good as fried chicken and fries that is high in calories, fat, etc.

References

*School experience

*https://www.health.harvard.edu/staying-healthy/healthy-eating-plate

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My name is Rayna Bain, and I am a 11th-grade student at Saint Augustine's College. Located in Nassau, The Bahamas, students at both my school and others island-wide come from a myriad of different backgrounds.

Whether it be from abusive homes, low-income areas, or even communities where they feel like they just don't belong, many students (especially males between the ages of 14-25) seek ways to avoid ostracization. Bullying -- whether in person, or online -- equally drives these children to find a space where they will be respected or loved, and may not always find the best way to go about it.

Estimates of the number of youths involved in gangs in the country range from 6,000 to 10,000 (OAS, 2010; Duba and Jencius, 2004). Around 18 different gangs have been identified as operating in The Bahamas, varying in size, structure, membership, and the extent of involvement with illegal activities.

₍IDB Series on Crime and Violence in the Caribbean; , 2016, p. 44₎

These rates have further increased since the study was published, and with murder rates on the rise annually, a lot of young Bahamians are losing their lives over drugs, disputes and other dangers -- all from looking for somewhere to belong.

Further referenced in the Inter-American Development Bank (IDB)'s statement:

The 2011 Bahamas Secondary School Drug Prevalence Survey revealed that 11.3 per cent of secondary school children reported belonging to a violent group (National-Anti Drug Secretariat, Ministry of National Security, 2012, p. 24)

₍IDB Series on Crime and Violence in the Caribbean; , 2016, p. 44₎

Children should not have to resort to gangs or factions in order to feel included, and one might argue that guidance counselors or the education systems are not enough to quell the rise of violence. However, looking in on a closer level, we can see that the same peers that many seek approval from are the ones tearing them down in the first place. Seeking refuge from dysfunctional homes, or solace from relentless mockery, many children turn to gangs, forming a deep loyalty for them as they finally find people who will accept them -- leading to many feeling trapped to stay in fear of being ostracized once again.

We, as a community, need not to combat this issue with more violence, more abuse, or more pain, but rather, spreading compassion, love and kindness -- no matter how small it may seem.

We, as future leaders, need to lead by example and curate kindness, sharing our resources and spreading positivity.

We, as a country, need to make sure that the future is in capable hands: hands willing to empathize and not exclude.

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Regrettably, my school is plagued by a legion of unscrupulous lads who deem it necessary to smoke cigarettes (usually containing marijuana) on school premises. This issue is derived from young men who disrespect the wishes of others by smoking in restrooms. This issue affects all male students, as they are unable to use the school’s restrooms in peace. The restrooms quickly fill to the brim with lads who make it absolutely unbearable to be in them. A remedy must be found to quell this horrid behaviour. According to The Bahamas’ Global School Health Report, the rates of marijuana smoking have only gone up. In this same document, it is revealed that up to 47% of adolescents have been exposed to secondhand smoke. Not only that, 22% of adolescent boys habitually smoke. This issue affects young men in school the most, as it creates an environment where they cannot focus, their mental state is impaired, and for most students, it is disturbing, as they do not wish to be exposed to secondhand smoke. In my own experience, I’ve borne witness to entire groups of boys piling into the restrooms to get absolutely hazed. Change must occur.

Kevin Williams

R.M. Bailey Senior High School

Nassau, The Bahamas

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Here is a poster about cyberbullying in my school-Tamiah Mackey

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Challenges I Would Like To Address in Black Point, Exuma ( The Bahamas)

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Challenges I Would Like To Address in Black Point, Exuma ( The Bahamas)

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In Black Point, some challenges that should be addressed include the need for more farming to support the community with fresh food and reduce dependence on imports. There is also a need for bigger shops or buildings, such as hotels or local businesses, to create more jobs and attract visitors. Improving these areas can help the community grow stronger and more sustainable.

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Introduction: All children are obligated to attend some form of school, but all students do not find themselves benefiting from the education system. On awards day, there are only a select few students who are being honored while the rest of the students sit in the crowd watching forlornly as they witness glory seemingly unattainable. Many people would blame it on the students’ laziness and low motivation, but it’s deeper than that. Yes, some of the children are lazy and unmotivated, but it’s more than that. A few factors that contribute to this issue are the lack of accommodation for different learning styles, the lack of care from adults (educators and parents alike), and peer pressure to be different.

Lack of Accommodation for Different Learning Styles: Not every student learns the same way, yet most schools only teach to suit one main learning style, which is reading and writing. But not everybody learns that way. Some students learn from hearing a person speak or music, some learn from looking a diagrams or watching a video on how to do something, and then you have the few learners that need physical contact with what they are learning to gain an understanding. According to a Wilfred University research PDF, there are four predominant learning styles: Visual, Auditory, Read/Write, and Kinaesthetic. Therefore, many students are disregarded as being unmotivated or disinterested in school when that’s rarely the case; their learning needs are simply being ignored, which makes learning boring to them.

Lack of Care From Teachers: Many students are not motivated to learn because there is only a minority of adults who really care if we succeed or not. The other majority are only interested in getting their paycheck and upholding their good reputation to the point where they won’t take a small risk and try to help a struggling student succeed so they focus on the more academically inclined students. Even the topers at school are neglected. They gain a lot of praise, but many adults do not care about the struggles they face getting to the top. The only thing they know is that you have a reputation to uphold and you need to get all of the work completed, regardless of what’s going on in your life. According to rand.org , A good way to determine a teacher’s effectiveness is to look at their on-the-job performance, which is what they do in the classroom and how much progress their students make on assessments.

Peer pressure: Based on an article on nih.gov, adolescence is believed to be the peak moment of vulnerability to peer pressure because of the desire to be popular or fit in. Many students have a status quo to maintain, and since excelling in academics was never displayed to them as being cool, it isn’t a part of many students’ focus. Many students have friends who encourage them to party, gossip, and do other “entertaining” yet distracting things that take away from school. This sets many students on the wrong path, and it’s not until their final year that they realize how much time they wasted for people who were only interested in the bare minimum.

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Challenge: Limited Access to Technology and Global Opportunities.

Our school has a limited number of computers and no proper computer lab or updated library resources. Because of this, students struggle to do research or complete digital assignments

Who it affects

This affects all students, especially those who rely on school resources for studying and exploring academic opportunities.

Why it matters

Access to technology and information is essential for learning in today's world. Without it, students miss out on research skills, digital literacy, and the chance to participate in global programs.

Community Context

Since our school is located on a secluded island, it's also challenging to get involved in international programs or connect with global initiatives.

Creative message

''Connection builds knowledge and when we bridge the gap in technology, we open doors to the world".

Keren-Hapuk Ayivi

Black Point Comprehensive School.

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connection through computers accross the world

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Spreading Of False Information/Cyber Security

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Spreading Of False Information/Cyber Security

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Aaron George

Grade 11

Saint Agustines College

Nassau, The Bahamas

Spreading of misinformation is a serious problem that occurs in my school. From as simple as a harmless joke or hypothetical story students often share anything they hear just to get a laugh out of it. Countless students are a victim of these "harmless" jokes however, although the students may laugh it off in school it can lead to depression and a damaged self esteem.

https://www.thenassauguardian.com/opinion/editorials/a-dangerous-time-to-spread-fake-news/article_6fee0136-1b06-5e77-a822-c6f7faf490aa.html

this problem is not something that is found just among school students. The Nassau Guardian writes about how misinformation made the covid 19 pandemic effect on the Bahamas so much worse that it could have been. The scourge of misinformation can not be stopped however, you can make a change. Make sure the information Doesn't harm yourself or other people, make sure it is accurate and not misleading, and do not intentionally spread information knowing that it is false even if it was as a joke. Some we can prevent the spread of misinformation is by raising awareness, hosting seminars and conferences for students, parents and teachers to attend, and have schools talk about the effects of misinformation in classes. Parents can also moniter the use of social media in young children and teach their chikdren how to identify what is real and what is not.

With the rise of artificial interligence commonly known as AI misinformation has never been easier to spread. With a few sentences AI can create hyper realistic videos and images, changing apearences and editing in items or people that where not present in some photos. Thankfully AI has not reached the stage where is impossible to tell the diffrence between reality and AI. A few indications that AI has been used are inconsistencies like extra fingers, unatural language, warped backgrounds, and shadows that do not reach the horizion of the image. https://www.google.com/search?q=how+to+tell+if+something+is+ai&oq=how+to+tell+if+something+is+AI&gs_lcrp=EgZjaHJvbWUqDQgAEAAYkQIYgAQYigUyDQgAEAAYkQIYgAQYigUyDQgBEAAYkQIYgAQYigUyBwgCEAAYgAQyDAgDEAAYFBiHAhiABDIHCAQQABiABDIHCAUQABiABDIHCAYQABiABDIHCAcQABiABDIHCAgQABiABDIHCAkQABiABNIBCDYzNjlqMGo3qAIAsAIA&sourceid=chrome&ie=UTF-8#fpstate=ive&vld=cid:d3b9e8ad,vid:q5_PrTvNypY,st:0

This video by TED talk goes into much greater detail on how to detect an AI image.

Misinformation will always exist, it happens everyday and there is not much anyone can do to put an end to it. The best thing to do is to make sure you know what is real and how to find out quickly. Using trsuted sources like news stations and popular news reporters is a must when it comes to finding out what is real. Images and video found on platform such as tik tok and instagram can easily be fake and you must do some reasearch to make sure that what you are sharing around is accurate. The best way to reduce misinformation is to start with you!

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Hi my name is Jezlyne Gonzalez im from Belize . Bulling is one of the most papular thing happening right know if affect the person and the family members. it leads to depression and lost of life. when the person is getting bully all they thing bout if to just run away or end there life. we can help by stop bulling, because we don't know what the person is going through. they have many young teen that have ended there life because of getting bully.

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Proposal Title: “Kindness in Action: Ending Bullying at SVGHS”

Solutions already tried:

Awareness campaigns in other schools.

Peer mentoring programs.

Counseling sessions for victims and bullies.

People and resources to turn to:

Teachers and guidance counselors.

School leadership (principal, vice-principal).

Student leaders and clubs (e.g., Prefects, Peer Mentors).

Parents and Parent-Teacher Association (PTA).

Existing school spaces: guidance office, assembly hall, classrooms for workshops.

Creative idea:

Create a “Kindness Campaign” that combines:

1. Peer Mentoring Program – older students mentor younger ones.

2. Kindness Wall – a display where students post positive messages or share stories of support.

3. Workshops and Assemblies – regular sessions teaching empathy, conflict resolution, and anti-bullying strategies.

4. Anonymous Reporting System – a safe way for students to report bullying without fear.

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Step 5: Prepare your proposal clearly

Aspect to transform:

Transform the school culture from fear or exclusion to empathy, respect, and inclusion.

Who benefits and how:

Victims feel safe, supported, and confident.

All students learn respect and emotional intelligence.

Teachers and staff see a calmer, positive learning environment.

Concrete actions from school/community:

Launch monthly anti-bullying workshops.

Set up a Kindness Wall in a visible area.

Train student mentors to guide peers.

Organize awareness campaigns during school assemblies.

Create an anonymous reporting box or online form.

Resources already available:

Teachers and guidance counselors.

Existing student clubs and leadership groups.

School assembly hall and classrooms for workshops.

Printing or digital tools for posters and announcements.

Expected results:

Short-term: Increased awareness, reduction in bullying incidents, more students feeling safe.

Long-term: A positive school culture, stronger friendships, and an empowered student body that actively discourages bullying.

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Dirty Classrooms in St.Vincent Girls High School

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Dirty Classrooms in St.Vincent Girls High School

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My name is Aleah Skerrit, and my school is the St. Vincent Girls’ High School, located in St. Vincent and the Grenadines. While our institution is known for its tradition of excellence, strong discipline, and high academic standards, one concerning issue continues to affect the quality of our learning environment: the persistent problem of dirty classrooms.

A classroom is meant to be a space that encourages focus, comfort, and respect for learning. However, when rooms are left untidy, with litter on the floors, desks marked with writing, and bins overflowing, the atmosphere shifts. Instead of walking into a space that inspires concentration and pride, students often enter rooms that feel neglected and unwelcoming. This not only diminishes the overall school experience but also undermines the values of responsibility and cleanliness that our school works hard to uphold.

A dirty classroom affects learning in several ways. First, it distracts students and reduces their ability to concentrate. It is difficult to focus on lessons when the environment feels cluttered or messy. Second, it raises health concerns. Dust, food particles, and improperly disposed garbage can contribute to allergies, unpleasant odours, and the spread of germs. Third, it reflects poorly on us as students. A school that prides itself on discipline and high standards should have learning spaces that reflect the same level of care.

While cleaners play an important role, maintaining a clean school is a shared responsibility. Students must take greater ownership of the spaces they use daily. Simple actions such as placing garbage in the bin, wiping desks, and avoiding unnecessary writing on classroom furniture would make a significant difference. Teachers can also encourage good habits by reinforcing these expectations and incorporating brief clean-up routines into the school day.

Addressing this issue is not just about cleanliness; it is about protecting the image of our school, promoting respect for our surroundings, and ensuring that every student can learn in a healthy and comfortable environment. By working together, we can restore our classrooms to spaces that reflect the pride, excellence, and discipline for which the St. Vincent Girls’ High School is known.

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Bullying at St Vincent Girl's High School

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Bullying at St Vincent Girl's High School

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My name is Jania King, and I am a student of the St. Vincent Girls’ High School. One of the issues that has become increasingly concerning in many schools, including mine, is the problem of bullying. Bullying can take various forms, such as verbal insults, social exclusion, physical intimidation, or online harassment. Although St. Vincent Girls’ High School strives to maintain a positive and respectful learning environment, instances of bullying can still occur among students. When bullying takes place, it not only harms the victim emotionally and mentally but also disrupts the overall sense of unity and safety within the school community. Victims may experience low self-esteem, loss of confidence, and poor academic performance as a result of constant fear or embarrassment.

As students, we must recognize that bullying is not a sign of strength but rather an act that causes pain and division. Teachers, parents, and school administrators all have an important role to play in identifying and addressing such behavior early. Awareness campaigns, counseling sessions, and peer support programs can help create an atmosphere where kindness and mutual respect are valued above all else. Every student should feel comfortable expressing themselves and participating in school life without fear of judgment or mistreatment. By promoting empathy, understanding, and discipline, we can work together to eliminate bullying and ensure that the St. Vincent Girls’ High School remains a safe, supportive, and empowering institution for all students.

To effectively solve this issue, both students and staff must work together in unity and understanding. The school can strengthen its anti-bullying policies by setting clear rules and consequences for those who engage in such behavior. Regular awareness programs and workshops can help students understand the emotional harm bullying causes and encourage them to show compassion and respect to others. Additionally, teachers and guidance counselors should provide safe spaces for students to report bullying confidentially, ensuring that victims feel supported and protected. Encouraging peer mentoring and student leadership groups can also help promote positive relationships and create a culture of inclusion. Parents must be involved as well, by monitoring their children’s behavior and reinforcing good values at home.

By combining education, communication, and firm disciplinary measures, we can greatly reduce the occurrence of bullying. When every student takes responsibility for their actions and stands up against mistreatment, the St. Vincent Girls’ High School will continue to shine as an institution of excellence, respect, and sisterhood — where all girls can feel safe, valued, and empowered to achieve their full potential.

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“Health Care in Canouan, Small Island, Big Needs”

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“Health Care in Canouan, Small Island, Big Needs”

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❤️ “Good health should not depend on the size of your island.”

Challenge:

Limited access to medical care and emergency services in Canouan, a small island in the Grenadines. Residents often face long delays in receiving care, especially for emergencies or chronic illnesses.

Origin:

Canouan’s small population and remote location make it hard to maintain full-time medical staff, modern facilities, and consistent supplies. The local health centre provides basic care, but for serious conditions, patients must travel to Kingstown on St. Vincent — a trip that can take hours by sea or air.

Who It Affects:

Elderly residents who need regular checkups or medication.

Children and pregnant women relying on limited local services.

Workers in tourism and construction who face risks but lack immediate medical access.

Families who must pay for costly transport to reach better hospitals.

Why It Matters:

Every Vincentian deserves equal access to health care, regardless of where they live. Strengthening health services on Canouan could save lives, improve community well-being, and reduce pressure on main island hospitals.

Sources:

Ministry of Health, Wellness and the Environment (SVG) – National Health Sector Strategic Plan 2023–2028

Pan American Health Organization (PAHO) – Country Cooperation Strategy for Saint Vincent and the Grenadines 2022–2026

iWitness News SVG, “Grenadines residents call for better health services” (2024)

Interviews with community members discussing the need for emergency transport and regular doctors’ visits.

Creative Element (Poster Idea):

Visual Concept:
A split poster showing Canouan:

Left side: a small clinic with limited staff and an ambulance boat waiting at the dock.

Right side: a vision of the future — a well-equipped health centre, telemedicine screens connecting to doctors in Kingstown, and smiling residents.

Text overlay:

“From Canouan to Kingstown — health care should reach everyone.”
Invest in rural clinics. Invest in people.

How I Got Informed:

I looked at government and PAHO reports about rural health care, read local news articles about Grenadines medical challenges, and spoke to a Canouan resident who shared their experience traveling to St. Vincent for medical treatment.

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Our beaches are not bins, protect our sea, protect our future.

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My name is Anyah DeRoche I am a 5th form student at the Canouan Secondary School in St. Vincent and the Grenadines.

A challenge I have noticed in my community is Plastic pollution.

Single-use plastics, fishing gear and everyday litter are washing into rivers and out to sea. On small islands like Saint Vincent and the Grenadines (SVG), this problem shows up quickly; clogged gutters, polluted beaches, and waste that harms wildlife and fisheries.

Where it came from (origin)

Much marine litter in the Caribbean originates on land, from poor waste disposal, blocked drains, and drainage.

Who it affects

Fishers & tourism workers: lost or damaged gear, reduced catch, unattractive beaches that scare visitors.

Coastal communities: blocked drains cause flooding and mosquito breeding after heavy rains.

Wildlife & ecosystems: seabirds, turtles, corals and reefs suffer from trapped, ingestion and pollution.

Why it matters to act (brief)

Economic: tourism and fishing are key to livelihoods; polluted beaches and damaged reefs reduce income.

Environmental: plastics break into microplastics and harm the entire food web.

Health & safety: clogged drains increase flood risk and vector-borne disease; decomposing seaweed/plastics can create health hazards.

Key local data & examples

Caribbean studies report that 70–85% of marine litter comes from land-based sources.

Local cleanups have removed hundreds of pounds of debris (example: organized community cleanup collected ~225 lbs in one event).

National workshops and initiatives are underway in SVG to reduce plastic leakage and develop alternative value chains.

How I investigated this (sources used)

I read regional and local reports, national government announcements, NGO activity summaries, and local news items to understand the scale and local impacts.

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🟥 Title: Crime in Trinidad: A Growing Challenge for Our Nation

Across Trinidad, crime continues to be one of the most serious challenges affecting our safety, development, and sense of unity. From petty theft and burglaries to violent crimes and gang activity, many communities live in fear. These incidents not only harm individuals but also hurt small businesses, discourage tourism, and create a sense of hopelessness among citizens — especially young people who feel trapped by limited opportunities.

Through conversations with community members and local authorities, I learnt that unemployment, lack of positive role models , poor community infrastructure and weakened trust between citizens and law enforcement are key factors that contribute to the rise in crime. Many young people turn to illegal activities because they feel there are few safe spaces, limited chances for education or work, and little belief that their future can improve.

To address crime in Trinidad, several steps can help rebuild stability and hope:

1. Youth Empowerment and Mentorship:
More programs are needed to help young people develop skills, self-confidence, and purpose. Youth clubs, sports leagues, art programs, and mentorship initiatives can guide them away from crime by creating a sense of belonging and direction. If every community had a safe youth center or mentorship group, many young people would choose positive paths instead of dangerous ones.

2. Education and Job Training:
Access to education and job opportunities is a powerful crime prevention tool. Government and private organizations can collaborate to offer vocational training, internships, and small business support. Teaching trades such as carpentry, plumbing, technology, and entrepreneurship gives youth real skills to earn an income and stay motivated.

3. Improved Policing and Community Relations:
For real change, citizens and the police must work together. Community policing — where officers regularly engage with residents — helps rebuild trust, encourages cooperation, and ensures quicker responses to issues. When people feel heard and protected, they’re more likely to report crimes and support safety initiatives.

4. Better Infrastructure and Lighting:
Many crimes occur in areas with poor lighting, broken roads, or abandoned buildings. Improving street lighting, security cameras, and public spaces can make neighborhoods safer and more active, reducing opportunities for criminal behavior.

5. Social and Emotional Education:
Schools, churches, and media campaigns should promote conflict resolution, empathy, and peaceful communication. Teaching youth how to manage anger and make positive decisions can reduce violent reactions and build a more respectful culture.

6. National Unity and Responsibility:
Crime is not just a police issue — it’s everyone’s issue. Citizens must take part in community watch groups, report suspicious activity, and look out for each other. By working together across different regions, Trinidad can rebuild a culture of care, responsibility, and trust.

Crime affects every part of our nation, but through unity, education, and opportunity, we can change the story. A safer Trinidad begins when communities take small, consistent steps toward hope and accountability.

Question for others: What national strategies or community programs do you think can truly help Trinidad reduce crime and give our youth safer, brighter futures?

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Dane Braynen, New Providence, Bahamas, Aquinas College

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Through out my life I've witnessed and experienced many forms of bullying in my school and in my community. My main concern I want to understand is; What causes someone to start bullying a next person and what measures can be taken to negate this challenge. Bullying has been around for many of years and has effected many people around the world. Even I have been bullied before and it really drove me to a state of sadness. Research shows that majority of bullying is caused by lack of self esteem, discipline and acknowledgement. Bullying affects many students in their day to day lives and can even lead to suicide, drug abuse and depression. This issue matters to me because not only have I've been affected by it but also a few of my close friends have been affected by it. One of my friends were very close to committing suicide because of this issue. Additionally, The Bahamas has experienced many cases of bullying leading to bigger problems for example: https://ewnews.com/stop-the-culture-of-violence-bullying-will-not-be-tolerated-in-schools-says-minister/

I believe we as a community can negate this issue by; 1) Watching what we say. Majority of the time when we are on social media or in person we tend to say jokes that may seem funny to you but in some cases the "jokes" we make can affect a persons perspective on themselves and also how they see others. I've seen many people becoming more distant and quiet because of these "jokes" we make amongst each other. 2) If we see any form of bullying we should speak up and help combat this issue. In my High School journey I've heard of many cases within my own classroom and school community and what it has leaded to. Issues like Violence and Delinquency are rooted within the issue of bullying.

A quote my mother always told me that helped me with bullying is "Bullying never has to do with you. It's the bully who's insecure." . So I say to you Bullying always comes from a place of unhappiness from the Bully, so never give up and remember that you are fearfully and wonderfully made in the image of God.

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There is a sad reality that we all face within our schools across the globe, which is litter. I feel as if no matter how much designated bins and signs, there is always going to be a student who refuses to oblige with these rules. I attend an eco school, and I often stand in awe seeing some of my contemporaries disregard the school rules and litter. It is a hope of mine that one day my school campus may be litter free.

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Lack of Communication and Group Cohesion

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Lack of Communication and Group Cohesion

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My name is Nailah Charles, and I am 16-year-old 5th form students of St. Joseph’s Convent St. George’s. A challenge I’ve identified in my school community is the lack of effective communication between students, teachers which contributes to the issue of limited cohesion and unity within the school environment.

Although St. Joseph’s Convent St. George’s is well-respected for its academic excellence and tradition, many students including me have observed that internal communication often breaks down. Expectations are frequently placed on students without open dialogue or explanation, leading to confusion, frustration, and a sense of disconnect. This affects not only academic performance but also student morale and the overall school culture.

My personal experience as swim captain, where I’ve seen how clear communication between coaches and athletes leads to better performance and stronger team spirit. As well as conversations with peers, many who have expressed similar concerns about unclear expectations, limited feedback opportunities, and feeling unheard and my observations during school events and meetings, where student input is often minimal or overlooked, and decisions are made without collaborative discussion and expected to be involved.

Students like me can feel disconnected and misunderstood, while expected to have full participation. I think my school should host consistent meetings where students and teachers can share concerns, ideas, and feedback in a respectful setting. Monthly or termly gatherings where students and teachers discuss school issues, expectations, and ideas and equal representation from each form and department ensures diverse voices are heard. The use of digital platform that are easily accessible for transparent communication, announcements, and discussion threads can reduces miscommunication and keeps everyone informed.

With this solution I think my school community can work more cohesively to be consistently successful though common understanding in all areas while focusing on our shared values of sisterhood and service.

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My name is Sarai Louis and I am from the Bahamas, specifically St. Anne's Anglican School.

Currently, my school has been facing an influx of trash being thrown on the ground with reclkess abandon. Students do not care about cleaning it up because they believe that the cleaning of trash is someone elses responsibilty. Rather than being a good stuart, they decide to walk over someone elses trash rather than pick it up and placing it in the proper bins. In fact, I uncovers a statistic that showed that even when bins are present, littering still occurs: for example one campaign found 25% of respondents reported they littered “at school” at least sometimes. This displays the complete lack of wariness students have for litter on campus. I have personally experienced picking up loads of trash arounf the cafetieria or pavillion on my school campus because my fellow students could not clean up after themselves. Leaving the campus a mess affects teachers, staff, administration and even students ourselves. It seems my fellow students have forgotten that keeping the campus clean not just benefits others, but also ourselves. When we keep the campus clean, it fosters pride and can improve morale; even if we dont feel it. continuing this trend increases a pattern that threatens the environment of the school and those who occupy it.

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Hello, I am 16 year old Shuryelle Roberts, a Grenadian Student of the St Joseph's Convent Grenville and I believe one challenge we face as a community is a strong fear of public speaking among students. This fear prevents students from fully participating in class, sharing their ideas, and taking on leadership roles. Many avoid presentations or discussions because they worry about being judged or making mistakes, which limits their confidence and growth. This fear can also affect their ability to communicate effectively, build teamwork skills, and prepare for future opportunities where speaking up is essential.

Hence, I believe that as a community, we should try to create a more supportive and understanding environment that helps students overcome their fear of public speaking. By encouraging open expression, offering positive feedback, and providing more opportunities to practice speaking in safe settings, we can help students build confidence, improve their communication skills, and unlock their full potential.

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Hi, my name is Kiyomi Roseman, and I’m here with Arielle Chasteau. We are both students at Boca Secondary School in Grenada. One of the big issues we have noticed at our school is bullying.

What is Bullying?

Bullying is when someone keeps trying to hurt, embarrass, or threaten another person on purpose. At our school, we see different types of bullying. Some students get physically bullied, they might get pushed, hit, or have their stuff damaged. Others go through social bullying, where they are left out of groups or activities. Then there is cyberbullying, where people post or share mean messages online. And some students face verbal bullying, like being teased, called names, or talked about behind their backs.

Why is Bullying a Problem?

Bullying really affects people more than some might think. It can mess with our mental health and cause stress, anxiety, or even depression. It can make students feel bad about themselves and scared to come to school. Sometimes, students even skip classes because they don’t feel safe.

What Can We Do?

We believe that as students, we all have a part to play in stopping bullying. We should speak up and report it to a teacher, counsellor, parent, or prefect. We can also stand by those who are being bullied, include them in our activities, and show kindness. And before we post or say something, we should think about how our words might affect others because words can really hurt.

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Bringing My Community Together for the Greater Good

In every community, the people are the heart and soul that make it come alive. Where I live, I often notice that even though we share the same space, we don’t come together as much as we should. Everyone seem to be minding their own business, and sometimes, that togetherness we once had feels like it fading away. I strongly believe that if the people in my community could come together more often, we could build something truly beautiful a place filled with love, support, and growth for everyone.

When a community works together, it creates a sense of belonging. People start to care more for each other and for the place they call home. We could have regular clean-up days, family fun activities, or meetings where everyone can share ideas about how to make the area better. Simple things like these can help us to understand each other more and build stronger relationships. It’s not just about being friendly it’s about building unity, trust, and pride in where we live.

Working together also helps us tackle problems faster and more effectively. When people unite, great things can happen. Whether it’s helping the elderly, supporting young people, or organizing community projects, teamwork makes everything easier. Instead of waiting for help from outside, we can depend on each other and grow stronger as one people.

Most importantly, coming together builds a better future. The younger generation would grow up seeing examples of cooperation and respect. They would learn that when we work hand in hand, we can overcome any challenge. A united community is a powerful one filled with people who care, share, and look out for one another.

In conclusion, I truly wish for my community to come together more often, not just for fun, but for the greater good. Together, we can make a difference we can turn small acts of kindness and cooperation into something that improves all our lives. Unity is strength, and with that strength, our community can shine brighter than ever before.

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The indifferential attitudes that people take towards almost all issues in our community is one of the biggest challenges that we as a society. "Ignorance is bliss", a statement that describes the type of indifference I am speaking about. If we pretend a problem doesn't exist and ignore it's impact, it will only amplify said problem and cause it to snowball into something that negatively effect our people for years and generations to come. Now, I know I've been speaking very pessimistically this whole time, but to end a light note, there is something we can do and it is to show that WE care. Be the change you want to see and lead by example and surely you'll encourage others to do the same.

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Hi, my name is Jahzara Bhola. I attend the Grenada SDA Comprehensive School (GSDACS) in Grenada. One problem that is currently prevalent in my school is Bullying.

Bullying is a problem that affects many students at GSDACS. It occurs through teasing, name-calling, and leaving others out just to mention a few. Some students feel scared, sad and depressed. In turn it can cause students to lose their confidence and lose interest in attending school. Bullying doesn’t just hurt one person it also affects the peers of the person being bullied which creates a negative educational environment.

Bullying is a social, physical and mental problem that doesn't need any coping mechanism but instead complete eradication.

To resolve this situation, we can implement a few things. Such as identifying who we are as individuals, showing kindness, speaking up, showing respect, standing up for others and counselling on self-worth.

When we all CHOOSE to treat each other as we would like to be treated with love and kindness, our school and community can become a better, a safer and a more peaceful environment for everyone.

BE A FREIND.

BE KIND.

STOP BULLYING NOW!!!!

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Littering - A Concerning Problem in The Guyanese Schools And Economy

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Littering - A Concerning Problem in The Guyanese Schools And Economy

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My name is Zodian Kirkland, A Jamaican-born Guyanese who currently attends the New Amsterdam Secondary School (NASS) / New Amsterdam Multilateral School (NAMS) in Guyana. I am 17 years old and have completed my Caribbean Secondary Education Certificate (CSEC) level at Berbice High School. I am now attending NASS to further my studies in the Caribbean Advanced Proficiency Programme (CAPE) programme offered by the Caribbean Examinations Council (CXC). Both my past and present schools are among the top 10 most outstanding schools in the country, and I have seen littering being a constant problem in the country. In my opinion, the Guyanese government needs to enforce the law to let people and children understand that littering is illegal and that it should be stopped. The government can also place animal-proof bins around the country and in schools. This may also decrease the problem of stray dogs entering school compounds, which is unhealthy for the students and teachers of the schools. There are always stray dogs walking around, sitting on furniture and picking up trash. These dogs are stray dogs, hence they may carry diseases. In fact, according to Federal Health Group, “The impact of stray dog populations extends beyond immediate physical threats. They can contribute to environmental contamination, particularly through faecal matter, which may facilitate the spread of zoonotic pathogens. This is particularly concerning for children who may play in areas contaminated by faeces, increasing their risk of infection from parasites such as Toxocara spp. and Ancylostoma duodenale.”

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Littering - A Concerning Problem in Guyanese Schools and Economy

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At the Westerhall Secondary School I have noticed that most students arrive late. At the start of school (8:00 a.m.) when you go into classrooms there will only be a few students present. The majority of students arrive between 8:15 & 9:00. The continued lateness affects the student's attendance record, and they miss out on important information the teachers would have shared during the morning session. This lateness occurs because of traffic congestion, lack of transportation, lack of sleep or lack of interest.

Roughly half of the student population do not live in the parish of St. David. Some students live in St. George while others live in St. Andrew. On mornings depending on where you live it is very hard to get a St. David's bus. They're either full or just scarce. One main cause of the traffic being experienced is a construction project at The Cliff St. George. Currently the main road is under construction which hinders people from getting to work or school on time.

In conclusion, the issue of student lateness at the Westerhall Secondary School is influenced by several factors, including traffic congestion caused by ongoing road construction, limited transportation options, and in some cases, students’ lack of motivation or rest. These challenges significantly impact students’ attendance and learning, as they miss crucial time in the morning.

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Hello, my name is Akeron Roberts, and I am a student at Westerhall Secondary School, located in Westerhall, St. David, Grenada. Recently, I’ve observed a troubling trend in our school: some students are increasingly showing disrespect towards teachers. This behavior undermines the authority of educators — the very individuals who have the power and responsibility to give guidance, make decisions, and enforce discipline for the benefit of our learning environment.

I understand that, for some students, this behavior may stem from a desire to be noticed or heard. They may be seeking attention or trying to assert themselves in a space where they feel overlooked. However, disrespecting teachers is not the right path to recognition. There are far more constructive and empowering ways to stand out — such as participating in extracurricular activities, joining clubs, engaging in sports, or contributing to school initiatives. These avenues not only help students develop valuable skills but also allow them to gain positive attention and build meaningful relationships with both peers and staff.

Disrespectful behavior casts a negative light on the entire student body. It creates tension and mistrust, making teachers feel the need to be constantly on guard. This, in turn, affects the overall atmosphere of the school, making it feel heavy and less welcoming. When teachers are wary of being challenged, even respectful conversations can be misinterpreted as defiance. As a result, students may feel discouraged from expressing their opinions or engaging in healthy debates — which are essential for intellectual growth and mutual understanding.

We must strive to restore a culture of respect and open dialogue. Students should feel empowered to voice their thoughts, but in a manner that is civil and considerate. Teachers, too, should be open to listening and guiding students through disagreements with patience and empathy. Only then can we foster a school environment where learning thrives, relationships strengthen, and everyone feels valued.

We will work together to make Westerhall Secondary School a place where respect is the foundation of every interaction.

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Understanding the Problem

One of the major challenges faced by St. Rose Modern Secondary School is the issue of high absenteeism and lateness among students. This happens when students frequently miss classes or arrive late, which affects both their learning and the teacher’s ability to maintain consistent progress. It can also reduce class participation, lower grades, and eventually lead to poor overall school performance.

Causes

There are several reasons why students may be absent or late. Some students live far from the school and depend on unreliable transportation. Others face family responsibilities such as taking care of younger siblings or helping with household chores before school. Lack of motivation, peer pressure, and financial struggles—like not having lunch money or proper uniforms—also contribute to the problem. Additionally, health issues and personal stress can make regular attendance difficult for some students.

Effects

High absenteeism and lateness cause serious learning gaps. Students who miss class often fall behind, lose confidence, and perform poorly in exams. Teachers are forced to repeat lessons, which slows down the progress of the entire class. Over time, this issue can lead to discipline problems, increased dropout rates, and a decline in the school’s academic reputation.

Possible Solutions

To address this problem, the school could introduce morning transportation programs for students who live far away. Reward systems such as certificates or prizes can encourage regular attendance. Guidance and counseling services can help students deal with personal or emotional challenges that affect attendance. The school should also involve parents by informing them early when a student is absent or late. Creating fun clubs, mentorship programs, and engaging classroom activities can also motivate students to come to school more regularly.

Research Methods

To better understand the issue, the following research methods can be used:

Surveys and questionnaires – to find out from students why they miss or come late to school.

Interviews – with teachers, guidance counselors, or the principal to get their views.

Attendance records – to track how often and when students are absent.

Observation – to notice patterns in student behavior and class participation.

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Lack of Communication and Group Cohesion 

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Lack of Communication and Group Cohesion 

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My name is Nailah Charles. I am a 16-year-old Form 5 student at St. Joseph’s Convent St. George’s, located on Church Street in St. George’s, Grenada. As a proud member of this school and the current swim captain, I’ve had the privilege of leading my team and working closely with coaches, an experience that has taught me the value of communication, teamwork, and trust.

One challenge I’ve observed within our school community is a lack of cohesion. While our institution is well-respected externally, we face internal struggles that can hinder the sense of unity and collaboration we need to thrive. I believe this disconnect stems largely from ineffective communication among students, teachers, and staff.

Too often, expectations are placed on students without open dialogue or mutual understanding. This leads to confusion, frustration, and a fragmented school culture. In my role as swim captain, I’ve seen firsthand how clear communication fosters success. When coaches and swimmers are aligned, we perform better. The same principle applies to our broader school environment.

I believe that intentional conversations and structured discussions can help bridge these gaps. By creating spaces where students and teachers can share perspectives, express concerns, and collaborate on solutions, we can build a more inclusive and supportive community.

Many of my peers have echoed these concerns, and I am confident that with a fresh approach, we can move forward together to make our school environment cohesive.

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The Horrors of Academic Pressure and how it affects my school community. 

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The Horrors of Academic Pressure and how it affects my school community. 

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My name is Teja Skinner. A form five student of St. Joseph's Convent St. George in Grenada.

I believe a prevalent challenge faced in my school community would be academic pressure and it's affect on our mental health. St. Joseph's Convent is well known for its excellent academic performance and history of success.

I believe SJC has a strong and definite school culture of excellence. Furthermore I believe there is an unspoken expectation to be the best and to overachieve. This results in high academic pressure. It can be stated that the academic pressure faced by students often lead to negative effects of their mental health. Many students have stated that the pressure can feel overbearing and usually leads them to have feelings of anxiety, stress and even depression.

Notably, there have been instances , especially around exam times where students experience panic attacks and emotional outbursts. This is directly related to the reality of wanting to perform the best. Additionally trying to maintain the balance of a holistic education negatively affects students. The pressure to perform well in sports while maintaining a good academic balance leads many students to feel incapable.

I think it is important to highlight this issue and I look forward to learning more about this problem and how it can be resolved.

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Challenge: High Absenteeism and Lateness

One major challenge at St. Rose Modern Secondary School is the issue of students being absent or arriving late for classes. This problem affects both learning and teaching since lessons are often interrupted or repeated for those who miss school. Many students struggle to get to school on time because of long travel distances, unreliable transportation, or family responsibilities at home.

Some might also stay away because they lack motivation, proper supervision, or face personal challenges such as financial stress or health problems.

When students are frequently absent or late, they fall behind on lessons, lose interest, and their grades drop. Teachers also find it harder to maintain class progress and discipline. Over time, this can lower the school’s overall academic performance and reputation.

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Every drop counts — the world is running dry

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My name is Shania Bynoe and I am a fifth form student at the Canouan Secondary school in St. Vincent and the Grenadines.

A challenge i have noticed not only in my community but in different countries around the world is Water shortages.

The Grenadine islands in St. Vincent lack rivers or reliable surface‐water streams; many homes depend on rainwater harvesting and underground wells. During dry seasons the supply becomes extremely stressed. In mainland St. Vincent rainfall and stream flows have dropped significantly (e.g., a ~32% reduction at one intake in 2023) according to the local water authority. In May 2024 the Central Water and Sewerage Authority (CWSA) announced water rationing across parts of the country because rivers and reservoirs were low. Regionally, studies show the Caribbean is one of the most water‑stressed regions, with calls for more investment in infrastructure, rainwater capture, desalination and efficient management.

Who It Affects

Residents of the small islands in the Grenadines who rely on cisterns and tanks that may run dry or require expensive shipments of water during the dry season.

Homes and businesses, especially in tourism on the Grenadines, as water supply interruptions affect basic services, tourism appeal, and comfort.

Vulnerable households that may resort to unsafe water sources when the usual supply runs low.

Why It Matters to Do Something About It:

Water is essential for health, sanitation, livelihoods and tourism. Interruptions and shortages reduce quality of life and can lead to higher costs and risk of contamination. The Grenadines’ reliance on rain and limited natural freshwater means they are particularly vulnerable to climate change (less rainfall, longer dry spells) and extreme weather events. Tourism is a major part of the economy, and water insecurity can undermine that sector, affecting jobs and income. Addressing the challenge now will help build resilience: better rainwater harvesting, storage, efficient use, alternative sources—all of which matter in a region with finite fresh water.

How I Got Informed

I reviewed the national report on water and sanitation in Saint Vincent & the Grenadines which describes the situation in the Grenadines about having “no surface water” and heavy reliance on cisterns.

I looked at recent news about water rationing during dry spells in 2024, where communities experienced supply cuts due to low streams.

I checked regional analyses of Caribbean water security to confirm that this issue is shared across many islands, giving context and urgency.

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1. Academic Pressure

Challenge: Students often feel stressed about exams, homework, and grades.

How to Overcome:

Make a study schedule.

Ask teachers for help when something is hard.

Study with friends to make learning easier and more fun.

2. Time Management

Challenge: Balancing schoolwork, activities, and personal time can be hard.

How to Overcome:

Use a planner to organize your day.

Set priorities and do important tasks first.

Avoid procrastination, start early!

NB: As a student myself I procrastinate a lot and sometimes it is draining when all the work piles up.

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Hi! My name is Jewel Collins a Form 5 student at Presentation Brothers College, Grenada. One problem I have is that personal devices and technology is being integrated into the classroom without standard procedures being enforced which allows misuse during class.As students, we’ve seen how technology and personal devices have become part of everyday school life. But without proper systems in place to manage how these devices are used, things can get out of hand. A lot of students aren’t logging our phones in when they arrive, and instead, they’re using them during class for things that have nothing to do with learning — like scrolling through social media, watching videos, or messaging friends. It’s easy to get distracted, and when that happens, it affects not just our own focus but the whole classroom vibe. If schools are going to allow phones and other tech, there needs to be a clear plan for how they’re used — otherwise, we risk turning helpful tools into constant distractions.

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Facing Improper Disposal of Garbage, both at the School and the Community Level

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Facing Improper Disposal of Garbage, both at the School and the Community Level

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As a school and community, we continue to face the challenge of improper garbage disposal.
I am Rosana Mitchell, a Form 5 student of Bishop’s College Secondary School in Hillsborough, Carriacou. It is frustrating to see bits and pieces of food, paper, and wrappers of all sorts scattered across classrooms, inside desks, corridors, steps, and the school compound. Unfortunately, this trend continues.

Sometimes, when students are caught littering, teachers instruct them to pick up their garbage. However, many respond by saying, “That’s the cleaner’s job.” This attitude shows a lack of respect, since no job is insignificant, every job has its worth. Some adults I interviewed believe this behaviour stems from poor home training, as many children today are not given household chores. Instead, parents allow them to stay in their rooms, glued to their phones day and night.

This issue extends beyond the school. Improper garbage disposal is evident in almost every village on my island. After all the wall-structured garbage bins were demolished in Carriacou, according to a one Solid Waste worker, to reduce the presence of vermin, many people have resorted to littering. Bottles, wrappers, and other waste are often thrown from vehicles. Although blue barrels have replaced the old bins, they frequently overflow, and stray animals scatter their contents while searching for food.

Suggestions to Curb Littering at the School Level:

Each day, two students (based on the class register) can be assigned to collect and dispose of classroom waste after the lunch break.

Organize class cleanliness competitions each month, with small prizes and recognition during assembly. Winning classes could also be featured on the school’s social media page.

Host recycling competitions to show how waste can be repurposed creatively.

Encourage students to design posters or murals with catchy slogans promoting cleanliness.

Provide clearly labeled bins for plastics, paper, and cans, and teach students how to sort waste correctly.

Encourage the popular students to model good behaviour, as peers often influence one another more than rules do.

Suggestions to curb Littering at the Community-Level:

Increase garbage collection from twice to three times per week to prevent overflow.

Launch community initiatives such as “Adopt-a-Village” or “Clean Saturdays,” inviting residents, students, and local businesses to participate. Private entities could provide transportation or small incentives to encourage youth involvement.

The government should hire more road workers to clean all communities, not just town areas and maintain cleanliness year-round instead of seasonally.

Local authorities can partner with businesses to offer small rewards or discounts for recyclable waste contributions, encouraging everyone to value cleanliness.

According to information from Quora, an unclean environment negatively affects health in several measurable ways. It can lead to higher rates of infectious diseases, respiratory and allergic conditions, mental health problems, physical injuries, and long-term public health burdens. These effects are felt at every level, from individuals and households to entire communities and populations. As the old saying reminds us, “Cleanliness is everyone’s responsibility.” Maintaining a clean school and community not only protects health and safety but also promotes pride, responsibility, and respect for our shared surroundings.

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This poster was made as a reminder to all that we are not nor more powerful alone.

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The devastating atrophy of "the village" in all aspects of life. - Kylah Taylor

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The devastating atrophy of "the village" in all aspects of life. - Kylah Taylor

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Hello, my name is Kylah Taylor, an 11th grade junior studying at the illustrious Aquinas College in Nassau, The Bahamas. To begin, when I originally considered the loss of "the village," I considered it too niche to my specific school and grade. However, upon further inspection I recognized that this seemingly exclusive issue was much more widespread than I had given credit for. Now, to specify, when I refer to “the village,” I am talking about community, neighbours helping and loving each other, and genuine emotional support from people far and near to you relationally. Further, when I refer to the “The devastating atrophy of "the village" in all aspects of life,” I am talking about the decline of community support, unity and basic understanding and empathy. We live in a day and age where we are pressured and pushed to be independent, to be in control of our life and to focus on ourselves, so much so that when we inevitably fall, no one cares or notices to help us back up. In The Bahamas, not too long ago you could walk next door to ask for sugar, stop by for a drink, chat with your neighbour, but now the most my neighbors get is a wave when I leave my house in the morning.This stems from a myriad reasons- a lack of trust, industrialism, the rise of  antisocialism- but regardless of the reasoning, it hurts us tremendously. We carry burdens on our back, unable to reach out and break this invisible wall of restriction or pride that holds us back from just asking for help. Did you know Gen Z is considered the loneliness generation (Bakhtiari, 2023)? There are 8 billion people on planet earth, more accessible via social media and the internet than ever before, yet we are still alone. But I do not believe I had to tell you that, because you already feel it. As I wrap up, I would like to talk about what sparked this revelation, my graduation class of 2027. We are so divided. We have cliques. We do not mingle nor mix. Recently, we have all decided that this behaviour will simply not prevail any longer. We want to make friends, branch out, enjoy our last years of high school with joy and support, not animosity and malice. I believe it is time we all reconsider how we have structured our society and redefine what individuality means, together.

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Naje Drakes- The St. George's Institute. Grenada W.I

I believe that a challenge my community continues to face is improper waste disposal. Specifically in the disposal of Plastic Products. In 2018 The Non‑Biodegradable Waste Control Act of Grenada bans the importation and local manufacture/sale of certain single-use plastic items in Grenada. However, since then, it is evident that businesses still use Plastic bags, containers and utensils ect, because of their durability. It takes 10- 20 years for some Plastic to degrade and in the process the ramifications can be dire as it has already affected our marine Life, and has caused our Landfills to Near capacity.

This information was brought to my school's Interact Club where we were heartbroken to see the effects of this type of Pollution. It Became Evident that one of the issues came from Public participation: While the legislation exists, actual sorting at source (households separating plastics) and proper use of recycling bins still require stronger uptake; also misuse of “Plastic bottles only” bins has been reported.

Therefore, We have started separating discarded plastic material from other trash every day at our school. This Task is Tedious, But we can help, even a little bit, by doing our part. The Knowledge we have learned have also been shared with our student body and we are working on raising funds for designated bins for our school and community to aid in the fight against this issue.

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Hello, my name is Aryann Rolle and I attended Kingsway Academy in Nassau, The Bahamas. To answer the question, “what challenges does your school face?” I conducted a virtual survey open, but not limited to Kingsway Academy students. Students were asked to select two (2) out of six (6) options.

The options were:

Infrastructure

Democracy (student’s opinions being valued)

Cleanliness

Healthy meal programs

Evolution (positive change to keep students advanced in all areas)

Safety

These options were given based on research conducted in The Bahamas over the last decade.

36.4% of students chose Infrastructure, 44.5% chose Cleanliness, 45.5% chose Healthy meal programs, 45.5% chose Evolution, 9.1% chose Safety, and a whopping 90.9%  chose Democracy. These results prove that students feel as though their voices do not matter in their communities.

The issue of democracy

These results prove that students feel as though their voices do not matter in their communities. In the Bahamas, discipline is taken very seriously. Schools often operate in an almost dictatorial manner. The lack of freedom from strict schedules to rigid curricular practices leave students feeling overwhelmed. In addition, decisions that directly impact students are often made without their knowledge or consideration, these practices damage the trust that should be held between students and administration. Accompanied by unequal power dynamics and students not having the opportunity to voice themselves in their communities, no wonder students feel like their voices don’t matter.

What can we do?

To make schools more democratic, students should have a real voice in decisions that affect them. Schools can create student committees that work with teachers and administrators to discuss rules, events, and policies. Student councils should have more power to make meaningful changes instead of just planning activities. Teachers can also let students give feedback on lessons and grading systems so they feel heard. Encouraging open discussions, class votes, and projects that let students choose topics can also build trust and responsibility. When students are included in decisions and their opinions are respected, schools become more fair, engaging, and truly democratic.

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Lack of/Underuse of Resources at My School for Teachers and Students

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Lack of/Underuse of Resources at My School for Teachers and Students

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Yohan Alexis

3rd Form

Grenada Christian Academy,

Grenada.

Lately, with the introduction of e-textbooks, students and teachers alike were still not without challenges as it relates to its availability. In my opinion, I believe that many students were and are still unable to readily access resources for learning promised to them especially the e-textbooks. Of recent my local government did promise the distribution of laptops to Form 1s and 2s. Despite this bold and considerate step however, I have noticed two flaws and the issue of lack of resources is heavy on heart. Flaw one (1) is that the reality proves that the distribution was late (some students have just received and others are yet to receive). This has limited effective teaching because students at that level are without essential textbooks in the physical copy. Flaw number two evidently proves that students without laptops in forms 3-4 are also without textbooks and essential helpful resources.

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Over the last five years from 2019-2024, it was observed that there was an increase in the number of students arriving to school after the scheduled start of school day (8:00 am). Based on the student late sign in sheet, on average at least 20-25% of the school's population arrive late. This has negatively affected both delivery of instruction and the learning process. Additionally it affects teacher student contact time, resulting in the poor performance, low morale, and creates disciplinary issues. There are many factors which contributes to the late arrival of students; traffic congestion transportation access, oversleeping and lack of interest.

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The Improper Disposal of Garbage in Schools.

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The Improper Disposal of Garbage in Schools.

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Problem:

Students and community members sometimes leave plastic bottles, snack wrappers, and papers around the school yard or near the main road. This makes the area look untidy, attracts pests, and harms the environment.

Issues stated:

Some students say, ‘I don’t like it when the school is dirty, it makes me feel like no one cares,’ and ‘If everyone cleaned a little bit every day, the school would look much better.’

Teachers also notice this, saying, ‘We see trash left around every day, and it can attract pests and make the place unsafe,’ and ‘Sometimes students don’t realize that small actions, like picking up trash, make a big difference.’

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Hello everyone! My name is Adilenie Wilson and I think the government in Belize can improve the roads by investing more in proper planning and maintenance. Many of the roads are damaged because they were not built to handle heavy rainfall and constant traffic. The government should use better-quality materials and hire qualified engineers to design roads that can last longer, even during the rainy season. Regular inspections and timely repairs would also help prevent small problems, like potholes, from becoming major issues.

Another way the government can improve the roads is by increasing transparency and community involvement in road projects. Too often, funds are not used efficiently, leading to incomplete or poorly built roads. If the government worked closely with local communities to identify priority areas and ensured that road projects were monitored and audited, the results would be better. Additionally, encouraging public-private partnerships could bring in more resources and innovation to upgrade road infrastructure across the country.

Photo from: @hotoffthepressbz

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Hot Off The Press (@hotoffthepressbz) • Instagram photos and videos

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21 likes, 0 comments - hotoffthepressbz on December 19, 2023: ”**The Potholes Plague on Victoria Street: Urgent Plea to Belize City Council for Repairs** Belize City, 19/12/23 In a city where pothole-ridden streets have become an everyday woe, residents are raising an urgent alarm about the deplorable state of Victoria Street, emphasizing its dire need for immediate attention from the Belize City Council. Most Belize City residents acknowledge the widespread issue of potholes throughout the city, but a consensus points to Victoria Street as an area demanding the highest priority for repairs. Particularly, the section between New Road and the intersection of Freetown Road/Barrack Road has been a cause for concern. This stretch was notably excluded from the cementing work conducted in 2021, which covered the portion from North Front Street to New Road. The recent heavy rains have exacerbated the already problematic condition of Victoria Street, rendering it almost impassable for both residents and motorists. The plea for intervention has gained momentum as frustrated citizens take to various forums, urging the Belize City Council to address the deteriorating state of this crucial thoroughfare. Photographs capturing the severity of the situation were taken at the New Road/Victoria Street intersection, providing a visual testament to the urgent need for repairs. Residents and motorists alike hope that these images will serve as a compelling reminder to the Belize City Council of the pressing issues faced by those navigating Victoria Street daily. As the outcry grows louder, the spotlight is firmly on the Belize City Council, with expectations for swift action to remedy the pothole predicament on Victoria Street and restore a semblance of normalcy to this vital urban artery. Kindly be sociable and share! #hotp”.

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My name is Omar Williams; I attend St. Ignatius Secondary School,

Guyana-Lethem Region # 9

Poor solid waste management at St. Ignatius Secondary School has grown to high levels. Overflowing garbage bins, littered areas, and careless waste disposal make both students and teachers grow in a very undesirable and unhealthy environment. The problem is mainly because of inadequate provision of garbage bins within the school compound and also a lack of enough awareness among the students with little guidance on safe waste disposal. All these factors make the school take on a neglected appearance and contribute to pollution as well.

To solve this, I am proposing a project called Clean and St. Ignatius (C.G.S. I) The main goal will be to have a cleaner, healthier, and more responsible school community. First, the school should provide labeled recycling bins around the compound so that students can separate plastics, paper, organic waste, and general garbage. A student led Club can be formed with the purpose of promoting cleanliness, monitoring the bins, and organizing weekly clean-up activities. We may implement a “Sanitation Period” every week wherein every class shall spend a short time cleaning their surroundings. In addition to this, to awareness sessions, poster competitions, and short talks on proper waste management may be arranged with the collaboration of teachers and students.

We can involve teachers, parents, and the local bodies concerned with the disposal of waste to make this plan work. The school already has places, such as an auditorium for spreading awareness, and open areas where the recycling stations can be set up. We will require basic supplies consisting of bins, gloves, trash bags, and cleaning tools. We can only do this with team cooperation for a cleaner, safer school.

I expect to see in the short run a cleaner compound and students becoming more aware of how their actions affect the environment. Over time, this project will help build a culture of responsibility and environmental care not only at school but in our homes and community as well. A cleaner school means a brighter future for all, and together we can make Clean and Green St. Ignatius a reality.

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https://www.unicef.org/belize/adolescent-development-and-participation

For more information on implementations by UNICEF in Belize on youths and others. The problem of violence and crime has risen in Belize and has caused many tragedies and losses. Belize has now become a country of gang violence and high crime rates, nevertheless; our country has found ways to bring this problem awareness. It is indeed sad our country has become this way, however (not to be political) but our current government has been doing great in cases of bringing violence awareness to our country. Our schools also bring awareness since it affects everyone, it may not be the same way but it still affects everyone. A society doesn't develop if there's something holding it back, in this case it's Violence and crime in Belize. I hope others reading this don't have the same problem in their country. Possible solutions to this have taken place, them being reducing the root of the problem, most of this is because of poverty, anxiety and depression. We should do our best to help them realize or at least know that they are not doing anything to help themselves but only destroy their lives or take lives of others. I pray this issue doesn't find and spread in your countries.Thanks for reading this.

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Dark Blue Grayscale Photo Grids Domestic Violence Poster_20251104_194030_0000

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Mental health in Rosignol is an issue that must be addressed. While the whole of Guyana has shown a significant decline in the suicide rate (~44 per 100,000 persons according to the WHO died from suicide in a 2012 study compared to the massive reduction seen today.), rural areas such as Rosignol and especially in Rosignol secondary still require attention. According to one of the counselors, only a small portion of students open up or use the services available to them when it comes to dealing with and discussing issues. While the addition of counselors in a School setting was started by a late 2022 initiative and thus students are still adapting to such resources being available, She mentions that she has observed a "Culture of not discussing what goes on behind closed doors." She also laments over the contributing factor being the superstition among families, who blame mental health issues on the supernatural and attempt to fix these issues with equally supernatural means (Journal of Psychiatry Research Reviews & Reports, 2025). Regardless, students at Rosignol do not mention the things that occur to them outside of school or their issues. Later in the day, I conducted a series of interviews to various students to ask if they would ever approach a counselor for assistance with an issue. The only answers I received were firm No's. In fact, issues with opening up and approaching authority figures(Staff and adult figures) seems to be an issue prevalent among Rosignol regardless if its for issues or simply school related questions, regardless of how strict a teacher is. Youth in particular are especially vulnerable to mental health issues due to the nature of development at this age, loneliness, low self-esteem, stigma and a lack of safe and supportive spaces to have open discussions about struggles. (News Room,2025)

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Hi my name is Haily Loza and im from Belize. I go to Escuela Secundaria Tecnica Mexico and i want to share some insight on certain issues in my community. One of the main issues i have observed would definitely have to be the overwhelming amount of garbage and beer bottles just randomly being disposed anywhere in the community. While many may excuse this behavior i personally think it is very disrespectful and utterly disgusting to have no shame throwing garbage anywhere. Many older people and youngsters want to stroll and play around the community but at every corner there is something horrid. Beer bottles and cans are extremely dangerous especially around kids and older folks. Imagine feeling your child is safe around the community and he/she comes back with a bruise or a cut because some people are lazy to pick up and dispose of their cans and bottles properly. Not only are those dangerous the garbage can also cause diseases and infect people all round the community. It is really important we all come together and preach and teach our community the correct thing to do. My village counsel luckily has started having almost weekly garbage pick up days. It is refreshing to see all our community stand together for whats right. We should also hold accountable those with no shame of throwing away their garbage anywhere and everywhere. Thank you so much for taking time to read and i hope you can share some of your own experiences.

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Littering, lack of recycling, and low environmental awareness in the school and community

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Littering, lack of recycling, and low environmental awareness in the school and community

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One of the main challenges in my school is the growing problem of littering and the lack of recycling. Every day after break and lunch, plastic bottles, chip bags, and other wrappers can be seen scattered around the campus. Even though there are garbage bins available, many students forget or choose not to use them properly.

Some time ago, our school started a recycling project that encouraged students to collect and separate plastic bottles, but it eventually stopped because of low participation and limited resources. Since then, the amount of waste has increased, and the school environment has lost some of its cleanliness and beauty.

Another issue is that many students are not fully aware of how pollution affects our community and health. Trash often ends up in nearby drains or fields, where it can harm plants and animals. This not only makes our surroundings look untidy but also affects our local environment and the image of our school.

After talking to teachers and classmates, I realized that most people want a cleaner and greener space, but we need more organization and motivation. Restarting the recycling project, organizing clean-up days, and placing educational posters around the campus could help a lot. Teachers and student leaders could work together to make these small actions consistent and lasting.

Our school has a strong community spirit, and I believe that if we all contribute, we can bring back pride in keeping our environment clean. Small changes—like using bins, recycling bottles, and reducing plastic—can make a big difference.

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Green Modern Collage Zero Waste Lifestyle Flyer

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My name is Nevaeh Brandis , I am from Dennery , St. Lucia. I attend the Clendon Mason Memorial Secondary School. I truly believe that poverty in my community should be addressed. I would like to focus on the children from poverty-stricken homes. Disadvantaged children often times do not attend school, have regular meals and lack resources such as school uniform and books. At the school there is a school feeding program. Also government has implemented several programs such as transportation subsidy and bursary programs.

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Orange Modern Charity Children's Social Media Post

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Hi,my name is Neveah Brandis. I am from the community of Dennery and I am a student of the Clendon Mason Memorial Secondary School. I must say poverty in our community is very high. Many families that are in poverty can not offered to send there children to school for a better education or they dont have meals like us.

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Xander Teos San Pedro Belize

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Hey! My name is Bronte Toussaint, I am from Grenada (the spice isle) and I go to the St. Andrews Secondary School. While i would like to try and keep this short by saying one challenge that my school faces i must mention two.

Firstly, littering, my school unfortunately has a problem with littering, well not just littering. Students even though we have enough garbage cans/ bags, choose to discard their litter on the floor or even shoving it in hidden places. Not only littering but marking walls with pens and markers, scratching up tables and chairs and even destroying them, this is causing the school to look unsightly and unwelcoming which we are far from. Our school is beautiful, all i wish for is for them to show some appreciation especially since many schools do not have most of the things we do. Fortunately our school is trying to fix this by creating competitions to keep not only our school but environment clean.

Now on to my second point mental health, all though it is not something rare it is still haunting our school. Even though I know teachers and students may try to create a safe and happy environment, 90% it fails. Many students suffer with mental health issues and the pressure of school doesn't make it better, with having tough deadlines, teachers not willing to work with you or trying to understand and even bullying or just toxicity. It is hard to work in a place where this is happening and so many students grades suffer tremendously as well as their well being. I hope that my school will become a place where students' best is finally good enough.

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I am Raquel Coyoc from the school of Mopan Tech one thing I hace noticed and seen at every school is the normalizing of throwing garbage in other areas that aren't bins some even play basketball with rolled up balls of paper or other garbage with the bins as hoops and always miss but never choose to pick it up and dispose of it properly in the bin they just leave it there or in the classrooms they normalize leaving there plastic bottles on the floor and prefer kicking it as if it weren't important I am the president of my class and there's this group that really doesn't care unless I point it out and I have asked why do you guys leave your bottles on the floor or just kick them instead of picking them up and they just say well my friends do it or they say others do it so that means it's something normal I always respon with is it normal to dirty your second home and live like this and see garbage and not feel some type of disappointment or anger or frustration I mean that's how I feel when I see somone throwing a garbage and normalizing it i tey to talk with people who throw garbage without feeling anything i always tell them are you okay with harming your environment this all started with us youths beacuse once we see someone doing it we do it too to want to "fit in" or not be "wierd" ive heard and seen that many times when a youth tells another youth hey dont throw your garbage there just throw it in the bin and the other youth would respond with are you crazy who does that and pluse one little garbage wont do no harm and im like what do you mean?!!!!!! So the other youth just remains quite but lets not back down at the first try we must sing the song of no littering becyase this can end with us youths just as we started it

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My name is Girish Algu a fourth form student of Jc Chandisingh one problem that i would find is bullying especially cyber bullying to me this affects children from expressing themselves but also makes them wonder if something is wrong with them as an individuals

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My name is Girish Algu a fourth form student of Jc Chandisingh one problem that i would find is bullying especially cyber bullying to me this affects children from expressing themselves but also makes them wonder if something is wrong with them as an individuals

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“Don’t let litter make our school grim, Keep it clean and throw it in the bin!”

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Hi, my name is Jadon Harford, I am a student of the St. Andrew’s Anglican Secondary School, Telescope, Grenada. Everywhere you look in this world, you can find a piece of trash just lying there: plastic cups, napkins, food, cans and bottles are some common examples of these disposals found around. This is unhealthy for the environment as it releases harmful chemicals into the soil and water and pollutes the air. Over time, this pollution makes the surroundings unsafe for both humans and animals. This is one major challenge our school is facing. Littering affects everyone in and outside school. It usually happens when students carelessly throw their garbage on the ground instead of using bins. This makes the school look messy and unwelcoming. It’s not just the cleaners who are affected but also the students and teachers that have to study and work in an untidy space. Littering matters because it shows a lack of respect for our school and the environment, and it can attract pests or cause pollution. Seeing why people litter helps us understand how small actions can create bigger problems for the whole school. That is why our school recently hosted a cleaning competition to see which classes had the cleaner class. This simple action reduced the litter in our school significantly. In addition, students feel more encourage to clean up the environment and learn about how littering can greatly damage their learning environment.

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“Silence shouldn’t be louder than our struggles.” Mental Health Struggles among Students/Youth 

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“Silence shouldn’t be louder than our struggles.” Mental Health Struggles among Students/Youth 

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My name is Ziana Vilsaint, The deputy head girl at my school in The Bahamas

Contrary to popular belief, here in the Bahamas, Mental Health is a huge issue amongst this young generation. Many Bahamian teens silently battle with anxiety, depression, and stress due to school pressure, social media, bullying, and personal challenges. This is a really pressing matter. As an active leader in my school and as a youth myself, I do understand why this happens often. The world is hard on us, and our voices often go unheard

In Caribbean culture, correct me if I’m wrong but mental health is neglected. According to one of our news outlets called the Tribune 242 in an article titled ‘Reform Series Conclusion: We are the problem.’ ( Monday, July 17th 2023)

The article details a series of issues that need immediate attention within our country, Mental Health being one of them. This is an uncomfortable truth me must face. Under the sub topic titled ‘ Mental health, it states:

We’ve neglected our mental health to the point of crisis, and it’s time we face the consequences of our neglect. Accessible mental health services are sorely lacking, and the stigma surrounding mental health issues continues to prevail.

However since 2023, I must commend our people for putting our priorities where it needs to be. In my school we often have mental health seminars, check-ins and we even have a grief Guidance Counselor.

Yet, the truth still remains, it can’t hide behind a facade. This matter affects students across both public and private schools no matter the resources to get help. THE STIGMA STILL STAND. Mental health matters in youth because it affects everything, our attendance, grades, motivation, and safety.

This is where being a true leader comes into play. I have made it my mission to not only be an example or role model, but to assist and give advice to students who need it. I often ask myself “If I won’t, who will?” Initiative starts with you. A simple “Hello, how are you?” Can change someone’s day.

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My name is Adanette Sobers and I am currently attending Canouan Secondary School in St. Vincent and the Grenadines.

The challenge that I have noticed is that students in my community and even in my nation in general often feel pressured by other peers to keep up with the latest trends. They feel that they should wear Clarks or Jordans on their feet, Spray grounds or North faces on their backs, and the latest iPhone in their hands. Without them they feel inferior. In my school, some are judged, since they may not be able to afford these items. This often has negative impacts on their confidence and can also distract them from their schoolwork. Research has shown that clothing and appearance are major causes of peer pressure among young people.

To help reduce this I think that we could try to teach students how to value respect rather than trendy brands and enforce in the students to remind each other to be themselves no matter what.

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Hi, my name is Lyna Silva, I go to Sacred Heart College in San Ignacio, Belize. Littering has always been a issue in my school. Whether its students waiting for the bus or students in campus. Plates, cups, water bags and more have been continuously thrown around or campus and in front of the institution. Our school has been trying to battle littering for some time now. This problem not only affects the environment but the image of our school and the image of us as a student body. This challenge that we face as a school can be very damaging to the environment which will later go on to affect us as a country and as people. I believe that this is a challenge that can be easily overcome by adding more garbage bins and teaching students how to properly dispose of their garbage daily.

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BY xander Teos San pedro Highschool,Sanpedro Belize.CA

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the fundamental challenge of garbage in my school 

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the fundamental challenge of garbage in my school 

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Dear Principal,

I'm concerned about how much trash is found littering the school. When we leave garbage on the ground, it not only makes our school look less aesthetically pleasing and more like a trash heap and less like a welcoming educational space, but it also attracts bugs and creates unsanitary conditions. It shows a lack of appreciation for the school environment and those who take the time to clean it up. If we all took a few seconds to throw our garbage away in one of the many bins, our school could be a cleaner, safer, better space for everyone.

Thank you,

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Name: Dion Moona

School: St Mary's College

Country: St Lucia

Within my school years I watched as many diligent young peers of mine gone through drastic changes within the brief couple of years of form 3 to 5.During these changes once eager young men turned into dull  narrow minded individuals which quickly snapped at you for the most minute situation. Though this may seem like a mystery, I personally blame it on the constant abuse of social peer pressure which impacted these “young men "into becoming what is know as “Delinquents". As a man who is in their early stages of teenage hood i can give a testimony on the hardships i faced within trying to “fit in." Though as time passed ,I realized that social criticism is inevitable as for one can’t be perfect in each individuals eyes.

Though i was quick to make such a discovery many of my peers fell into the trench of "Others Personal Preview Bias”. Thus negatively impacting their aspirations and goals, classifying it as unrealistic and childish whilst imposing the set "Standard" upon others who shared similar dreams as them. This further drew way in the loss of creativity and hope for the younger generation.

While it is important to develop a proper stance within your peers, it is also key to realize one’s own needs and capabilities. Many choose to withhold from their true potential all due to the social pressure of failing and becoming a laughing stock within their form.

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My name is Kilani Berry, and I am from the Queen Street community located in the country of Belize. I am 16 years old and a student at Saint Catherine Academy. One challenge in my community that I would like to address is littering. Many people throw garbage on the streets, in drains, around public spaces, and near the sea, which negatively impacts our society and poses a threat to marine life. This problem has persisted for the years I have lived in this area, resulting in sections where piles of garbage accumulate, leading to health issues among residents. The littering is particularly bad in busy areas such as the bus terminal, where it creates a foul smell. I believe reliable environmental groups could come together to build garbage bins from recycled materials and place them in important and busy areas to help prevent littering. Additionally, we could create a program that connects local businesses and schools, with each taking responsibility for keeping a specific area clean.

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My name is Eimmy Garcia, a student at Pallotti High School, located in Belize. I would like to speak out and point out the violence and crime happening. Over time, I’ve seen many news outlets talking about the increase in violence and crime that’s been going around to young women and women. Many of these incidents take place in areas where young people live, including myself. These incidents make it hard to feel safe walking around, knowing that crime can happen at any time—to us, or even affect us despite being mere passersby. In news outlets like 7 News Belize and Breaking Belize News, you can find that in the past three weeks, there have been five femicides. The endangerment that youths are exposed to is far more than what should exist in any young person’s daily life. This can also happen to young girls who have early romantic relationship.Speaking from experience, I have encountered many weird and disturbing situations with men while just trying to get by with my daily life or on my way to school. I believe this issue should be talked about more to help reduce these incidents from happening to one another and to younger females.

https://www.breakingbelizenews.com/

https://www.7newsbelize.com/

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"Bullying and it's cause on a youth's mental wellbeing."

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"Bullying and it's cause on a youth's mental wellbeing."

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My name is Suriyah Sankar, I am currently a Form 5 / 12th Grade student at the Penal Secondary School, Trinidad and Tobago. The challenge within my community that I have selected to highlight is "Bullying and it's cause on a youth's mental wellbeing." My reasoning behind this choice of topic is because of the fact that it is a SERIOUS issue which is overlooked by many. Growing up as a student in the South of Trinidad, bullying happens country-wide, it is not an unfamiliar or brand-new thing to hear about on the news or from a viral social media post made by an upset parent. In today's world, bullying is normalized due to lack of intervention, adults have tended to downplay it as "Bickering gone too far" or the victim of bullying being called "Oversensitive", which leads to many of the youth being let down and failed by the Education and Moral Justice System. Bullying in Schools and/or Communities should never be tolerated no matter the circumstance(s). I strongly believe that the youth of today is severely impacted by bullying, as it affects their mental health, the constant insults, threats and being picked on becoming too much. It is important to understand that everyone has their own way of handling the situation, however they are individuals who are lighthearted and cannot be placed under this strain. Lack of intervention of bullying led to Trinidad and Tobago's recent outcry as 15-year-old Jayden Lalchan, a student of Trinidad and Tobago took his own life due to his severe bullying. Jayden has now become another statistic and now a massive REASON why bullying is a serious matter and his story should make people understand the severity of bullying and why it needs to be prevented and ended. Sources :

Author: Shivana Lal

Published + Edited : Oct 8th 2024

https://trinidadexpress.com/news/local/bullied-at-school/article_19a96b2e-8451-11ef-984a-9708083ed6e6.amp.html

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Stock Image of a female student, outcasted and alone.

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A large achievement gap exists at Anna Regina Secondary School. While a small number of students consistently perform at a high academic level, the majority struggle to meet expected standards.

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A large achievement gap exists at Anna Regina Secondary School. While a small number of students consistently perform at a high academic level, the majority struggle to meet expected standards.

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Hello, my name is Rekey Norton, and I'm a proud student at Anna Regina Secondary School in Essequibo, Guyana. The challenge I have identified is the large achievement gap among students at my school. A small number of students consistently perform at a high academic level, while the majority struggle to achieve satisfactory results. This gap in performance limits equal learning opportunities and affects the overall progress and reputation of the school.

This situation has developed over time due to several factors. Some students have greater access to resources such as private lessons, internet access, and strong parental support, while others rely only on what is provided at school. Differences in motivation, study habits, and learning environments also contribute to this growing divide in performance.

The achievement gap affects everyone in the school community. Students who struggle often feel discouraged, lose confidence, and may eventually become disengaged from learning. High-performing students may also feel isolated or unchallenged. Teachers are affected as well, since they must balance lessons between advanced and struggling learners, making it difficult to meet the needs of every student effectively.

It is important to address this issue because a wide achievement gap weakens school unity and limits the potential of many young people. If it continues, it could reduce future opportunities for students, lower overall academic success, and negatively impact community development. Ensuring that all students have equal access to quality learning experiences is essential for building a stronger, more successful school environment.

To better understand this issue, I have spoken to headteacher, who shared their observations about differences in student performance. I also reviewed school examination results and reports that showed clear variations in grades. Additionally, I read information from the Guyana Ministry of Education and local news articles that highlight the growing concern of educational inequality and emphasize the importance of supporting struggling students. Success shouldn’t belong to a few, every student deserves the chance to shine.

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What we say online can still hurt in real life. Behind every screen, there is a real person with real emotions. Let’s use technology to spread kindness, not hate.

Hi, my name is Danairi Burgos from Corozal, Belize. I am currently attending Escuela Secundaria Técnica México.

The challenge I chose to explore is cyberbullying and online hate. Many young people in schools use social media or group chats without realizing how harmful their words can be. I learned more about this issue by talking with classmates and teachers, and by checking reliable sources like UNICEF and the OAS materials on digital citizenship.

This experience helped me understand that online respect and empathy are just as important as in person.

Before posting or sharing, think about how your words might make someone feel.

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Post de Instagram Día de la Lucha Contra el Bullying Ilustrado Rosa y Amarillo

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Hello my name is Rayjauhn from Cayo,Belize. A problem I have noticed in my community is garbage in drains. This problem can be found on Greater Belize News channel. This problem is very common in other villages near and far. Many of my neighbors are also complaining about this problem, how it has a terrible stench. I think as a residence of the village we should place garbage bags around and as a community we should take days and come together and clean. We should also keep our yards clean and maintain them regularly. I have spoken to the village council to recognize this problem and fix it for our reputation. All this information I have gathered by myself through my observation.

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 Improving learning conditions in a temporary school environment

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 Improving learning conditions in a temporary school environment

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Hi, my name is Xia Glass, and the challenge I will be investigating is improving learning conditions in a temporary school environment.

For the past five years, St. Vincent Girls’ High School, the top-performing secondary school in the country, has been operating from a temporary campus at the old E.T. Joshua Airport in Arnos Vale. The move was originally meant to be short-term while the main campus in Kingstown underwent repairs, but progress has taken far longer than expected because of  new structural challenges. According to the Agency of Public Information Minister of Education Curtis King stated that the school would remain at the tarmac “longer than was previously planned” because of difficulties restoring the old Grimble building.

While teachers and students continue to uphold GHS’s proud tradition of excellence, the temporary plywood structures require frequent maintenance, with weakening floors, exposed nails, and occasional issues with pests and stray animals. Despite these challenges, the school community remains dedicated and resilient. This issue is not about criticism—it is about acknowledging the perseverance of both students and teachers and emphasizing the importance of creating a safer, more modern, and functional environment that reflects the standard of excellence our school represents.

To better understand this challenge, I reviewed multiple local news sources, including iWitness News (July 24, 2024), which reported that “students are still out at the tarmac with no definite word on when repairs on the campus will be complete,” and Searchlight Newspaper (April 26, 2024), which described temporary school closures due to flea infestations caused by stray animals near the compound. I also read official updates from the Agency of Public Information, where the Minister of Education explained that ongoing structural issues have delayed completion. Additionally, I spoke with students and teachers to learn more about their daily experiences and how they continue to stay motivated despite the circumstances.

This challenge highlights the importance of investing in safe and sustainable learning environments. Improving the conditions at SVGHS would not only enhance academic focus and well-being but also demonstrate national commitment to quality education.

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Hi! My name is Courtney Cayetano, a Junior at St. Catherine's Academy, located in Belize City, Belize. I believe that a major issue at my school is students skipping the lunch lines during our break and lunch period. This happens because students often ask their friends if they can go ahead of them. While this may seem like a small issue, it can become very troublesome when multiple people allow their friends to go ahead of them.

Furthermore, when this happens, the students who actually follow the lunch line procedures are at risk of not getting a proper meal or not having enough time to eat. This is a result of the students who skipped the line getting large amounts of food, usually for themselves and another friend.

Students affected by this usually do not get a proper meal, and this can hinder their energy and productivity levels, essentially impacting their academic performance. As Virginia Woolf once said, "One cannot think well, love well, or sleep well, if one has not dined well." This goes to show the importance of having a proper meal, especially at school.

A solution to help reduce this problem would be for students to take the time to pre-order meals, whether it's in the evenings or in the mornings before classes. This would reduce the waiting time and ensure that students who want a proper lunch will be able to get it without waiting long periods of time.

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The Dangerous  Plastic Pollution making Water  Canals Polluted In My Community !

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The Dangerous  Plastic Pollution making Water  Canals Polluted In My Community !

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I am Kuvina Singh , a grade 11 student of the Bishops' High School in Georgetown , Guyana . Dwelling among my community for 16 years, it always bothered me as to why no one cared a bit about what they were and are doing to the environment .

Residents are continuosly disposing their garbage along the water ways due to the norms. Survey showed that over 60% of residents are working class who depend on the nearby stores. The design of single- use plastic bags are everywhere and now damaging our eco-systems since over time they break down into microplastics that harm animals and when citizens interact or consume water they become ill. Additionally, it creates environments for pests to develop which inturn spreads diseases .

A picture showing how the dirty water and the sides of the waterway caused a ring worm imferction between the toes of a child dwelling everyday fetching water to wash clothes is presented to show the severeness of the issue .

I believe that if the Neighbourhood Democratic Councils around Guyana step up and start projects to rehabilitate their communities through monthly clean-up walks and collaborate with plastic manufacturing companies to immediately gather all plastic used and recycle monthly all around our country . It is inevitable that we will improve our environment along with enforcing the law for those who litter and while we build our carbon credit we can reduce the waste we put out and pollute mother nature's world.

LET US ALL FIGHT FOR A GREATER FUTURE BECAUSE IT IS A HLOBAL PROBLEM AND WE SHOULD ALL START PUTTING ASIDE OUR DIFFERENCES , STEP OUT OF OUR COMFORT ZONES AND START BEING THE CHANGE AROUND THE WORLD . IT MAY SEEM TO BE A COMMON PROBLEM THATS NEVER ENDING BUT AS YOUTHS WE CAN BE THE CHANGE TOWARDS THE FUTURE IN OUR HANDS .

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Hi My name is Jezlyne im from Belize some challenge in my community is Public transport is sparse and road conditions can be poor, making travel difficult. Imported goods, fuel, and groceries are expensive due to shipping and taxes. Heavy rains and flooding during the wet season can interrupt our daily routines. Rising sea levels and extreme weather threaten coastal areas and ecosystems like the Belize Barrier Reef. These things happen because of Belize colonial past, small economy, weak infrastructure, governance issues and climate vulnerability. These factors combine to create ongoing challenges in transportation, utilities, healthcare, and cost of living. These challenges in Belize affect nearly everyone, especially rural families, students, the elderly, workers, and farmers. These groups face issues like high living costs, poor infrastructure, limited access to services, and climate-related disruptions. Taking action matters because it protects livelihoods, strengthens communities, and secures a better future for everyone. But most off all our country is a small but vibrant country with rich biodiversity, cultural diversity, and a strong sense of community. However, it faces several pressing challenges that demand collective action. But that does not stop us from making our country looking beautiful and healthy.

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Hi, my name is Kemora Ashton, and I come from the beautiful village of Chateaubelair.

One issue I believe is very prevalent in my neighborhood is the generational gap. Many of my neighbors are between the ages of 35 and 80, and because of this, the few teenagers in our community often struggle to help them understand the newer generation and the way we are growing.

For example, the clothes we wear—like shorts—might be considered “inappropriate” by older residents, because when they were our age, such styles were frowned upon. But for us, these are just everyday clothes. They represent comfort, confidence, and self-expression, not disrespect.

This gap isn’t about rebellion—it’s about change. And I believe that with open conversations, mutual respect, and a willingness to listen, we can bridge this divide and build stronger bonds between generations.

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Jiany Melendez- Labour Landscape in Belize

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Jiany Melendez- Labour Landscape in Belize

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The Belizean labor market is governed largely by the Labour Act, which sets the normal workweek to 45 hours and requires employers to pay workers for overtime, though not less than 1.5 times their regular wage, for work performed outside normal working time. My mom, and thousands of other dedicated Belizean workers like her, to work overtime hours consistently at places like Mirab is more often than not a conscientious need, proof of the tremendous dedication of many families who rely on that higher rate of remuneration to help increase their overall family earnings and finance their children's desires and education. Even though the official body of law is in force to protect employees, issues like strict compliance with minimum wage laws and hiring into higher-paying jobs continue to be a problem in the workforce of the country.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=1cmCgpMuTDE is a video that offers context on the Ministry of Labour's work to update and modernize Belize's labour laws.

Belize Labour Legislations: Labour Legislations - Ministry of Rural Transformation, Community Development, Labour and Local Government

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Blue Illustrative Happy Labour Day Instagram Post

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Hello, my name is Ronald Coleman and I go to the San Pedro High School in Ambergris Caye. I'm 15 years old and a senior.

Pollution is one of the biggest problems on Ambergris Caye, and it’s something that hurts to see. I grew up here. This is my home, and sometimes it feels like we’re slowly letting it get covered in trash.

The island is broken up into subdivisions, and in the more swampy areas like San Mateo, it’s really bad. That area is swampy, so garbage gets stuck in the water and around people’s homes. When it rains, it floats everywhere. Bottles, plastics, cans, wood, literally everything. It’s hard to look at, because people have to live in that.

Along the coastline, it doesn’t get any better. The beach areas near the resorts usually look clean because they’re maintained, but once you go further down the island, especially near the end or the less populated sides, it’s a mess. I ran down there one day, and there was garbage everywhere. Bottles, bags, even random stuff washed up on the sand. I had to walk off the coastline and onto the main road because it was unwalkable.

And when the sargassum comes in, it makes everything worse. It traps all that garbage in the water. For like ten plus feet off the coast you can just see a line of seaweed mixed with plastic, bottles, styrofoam, dead fish, and all kinds of junk. It smells bad and looks terrible, but it's rubbing in our face in full view how much pollution is sitting in our sea.

Tomorrow, San Pedro High School is doing another community service to clean up the beach. It's something that seems small, but at least it’s something. If we don’t start cleaning and caring now, it’s just going to keep piling up. This is our pretty island and our future, and seeing it like this is honestly heartbreaking. I just hope more people start noticing and helping too.

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Fostering Peace and Understanding in Schools

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Fostering Peace and Understanding in Schools

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Hi, I'm Hassan and a Grade 12 student at St. Roses High School in Georgetown, Guyana. For me, school has never been about equations and memorization of facts alone. It's where we make friends, figure out who we are, and start to figure out the people that we become. But even in an atmosphere with so much learning and laughter, problems appear. At St. Roses, one of the biggest issues isn't loud or out in the open. It's unspoken tension that sometimes happens between students. It seems in teasing that pushes boundaries, words said in anger, or when we choose to be silent over understanding.

I've witnessed how these small arguments escalate to the point that individuals end up feeling isolated, less secure, or even threatened to speak up. Discussing with teachers and peers, I learned that much of this tension isn't hate. It's stress, peer pressure, and having no clue about communicating feelings in a positive way.

Taken from the vision of Safe School, I am intrigued at how empathy education, peer mediation, and truthful conversation can rebuild trust and peace. In St. Roses, peace needs not only to be a poster on the wall but something we live, make a choice for, and defend together every day.

If we are to promote peace ,what better place to start than at your schools.Your little action can be of big help if we just take a step forward .Together.

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Bullying at Mackenzie High School Linden,Guyana 🇬🇾 

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Bullying at Mackenzie High School Linden,Guyana 🇬🇾 

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Hi! 👋 My name is Alika Moore, and I'm a Grade 11 student at Mackenzie High School in Linden. This prestigious school is known for its success at CSEC and CAPE. The challenge I chose is one I have faced throughout both primary and secondary school: bullying. Some students use teasing or intimidation to appear more powerful or popular, or simply for amusement. Over time, this behavior has spread beyond the school compound into online spaces such as Instagram, WhatsApp, and TikTok.

According to stopbullying.gov, “Bullying is unwanted, aggressive behavior among school-aged children that involves a real or perceived power imbalance. The behavior is repeated or has the potential to be repeated over time. Both kids who are bullied and those who bully others may have serious, lasting problems.” There are several types of bullying, including verbal, physical, and cyberbullying.

Bullying can be caused by many factors. Some individuals may be insecure, lack empathy, or have poor social skills. In some cases, it is a learned behavior. Anyone can be a target of bullying regardless of age, race, height, or physical appearance.🧏🏽‍♀️

Bullying affects everyone involved. Victims may feel afraid to attend school or may suffer from depression. Teachers can also be disrespected or targeted online. Even bystanders can be affected, living with guilt for not intervening. Bullies themselves may struggle with underlying issues such as insecurity or a need for control.

Overall, bullying creates a toxic environment that prevents the school from functioning properly. If left unchecked, it can shape the next generation of Linden youths into believing that such behavior is acceptable.

To prevent and stop bullying, it's essential to foster an inclusive school environment. Encourage open communication where students feel safe to report incidents without fear of retaliation. Teachers and staff should receive training to identify and address bullying effectively. Involve parents and the community in discussions about the impact of bullying and the importance of intervention. Support programs that address the underlying issues faced by bullies, helping them find healthier ways to cope with their insecurities.

-Alika A Moore

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Hello! My name is Aiden George and I attend St Mary's College in Saint Lucia. Over my nearing five years at the school, I have witnessed first-hand the struggles my school has faced with maintaining a clean environment. After consultation with teachers and students, I decided to write the following poem to discuss the issue:

Green School, Green Earth

I walk around my school, lunch having just begun

Taking in the view like I had always done

But this time was different, as I gaze with great fervor

And see a frequent sight that makes me quite nervous

It seems as if for every person I spot,

There is a piece of food left on the ground to rot.

Or if not food, then plastic bottles rolling with ease

Chased by sheets of paper, dancing in the breeze

The more I looked around, the more I came to see

I’m left to gasp in dismay thinking “This can’t be!”

Maybe the bins aren’t in good enough supply

And that is why the trash population seems so high

If the school gets more bins, the narrative could spin

And maybe we would start to see the problem growing thin

Students would use them, as they should

And a simple little fix would end up doing a lot of good

But on the admin and staff, all the blame can’t lie

As students are too to blame for Mother Nature’s sigh

For we are the ones who litter from place to place

And when it's time to pick it up, vanish without a trace

Let’s meet in the middle, eager to play our part

More bins, less litter and a shared change of heart

For I believe, and I really hope you do too

That a greener Earth begins with actions from me and you

So what better place to start, where we call our own

With a collaborative effort, a green culture can be grown

For if we safeguard places where we learn and grow

Imagine what we can do outside the walls we know

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My name is Sarah Harry, and I’m a first-year CAPE student at St. Stanislaus College on Brickdam Street, Georgetown, Guyana. I’ve been a student here for almost six years now, and during that time, I’ve seen the school grow a lot. New buildings have been added, the learning facilities have improved, and the school continues to stand out as one of the best in the country. Still, even with all these positive changes, one issue that continues to worry me is bullying among students, especially when older ones take advantage of the younger ones. There are times when students from the higher forms, like Forms 4 and 5, tease, intimidate, or pressure those in Forms 1 and 2 instead of guiding them in the right way. It doesn’t happen to everyone, because there are many seniors who are supportive and kind, but there are still moments when the younger students feel uncomfortable or afraid around some of the older ones.

Sadly, this type of behaviour isn’t something that only happens at our school. Reports from other places show that bullying between older and younger students is a common problem. For instance, in India, several older students were suspended for assaulting a junior (Times of India, 2025a), and another report described a case where seniors physically attacked younger pupils during a “ragging” incident (Times of India, 2025b). Even Pope Francis commented that bullying at school “prepares students for war, not peace,” encouraging teachers and parents to take the issue seriously (Associated Press, 2025). Here in Guyana, the Ministry of Education recently reminded schools that bullying will not be tolerated and has begun investigating new incidents (News Room Guyana, 2025). Studies have also shown that bullying often stems from power differences between older and younger students and can harm both their emotional and physical wellbeing (Yosep et al., 2023; Zhao, 2022).

That’s why I believe it’s so important for older students to recognize the influence they have. Instead of putting younger ones down, they should use their experience to guide them and set a positive example. If we can build that kind of culture, our school will not only continue to shine academically but also be known for the kindness and respect that make it truly outstanding.

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My name is Kelenna St.Marthe,I am from the community of Dennery located in the country called St.Lucia.I am a member of the Clendon Mason Memorial Secondary School.The two challenges that I want to understand better in my community firstly is Gun Violence.Why can't we all put down the guns and choose peace instead of war or understand each other instead of arguing and killing one another.In my community gun violence has became a leading cause of death,taking more than 5 lives in one month and also living others with countless injuries and traumatized.

My last challenge in my community is disrespect.Disrespect is the act of showing a lack of regard,courtesy,or appreciation for others.It can appear in my community in many forms such as children disrespecting their elders even children disrespecting their own parents with such a rude behaviour,hurtful language,ignoring someone's feelings,or even dismissing their opinions.Disrespect damages relationships,weakens trust,and creates a negative environment where people do not feel safe or people feel undervalued and unheard.In my opinion if we choose to treat others with kindness and empathy,we help build a culture where everyone feels valued and feels seen.

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Hi, my name is Felix Rejon, I am from San Jose Succotz, Cayo Belize. At the moment I am attending Alvin L. Young Nazaren High School.This is one of the challenges we face in school or in our community."VANDALISM"

We should take action against vandalism because it damages schools, communities, and the sense of safety people depend on. In Belize, several schools have recently suffered from vandalism and break ins. At St. John Vianney School in Belize City, windows and doors were smashed and locks broken. Mary Hill R.C. School in Corozal was defaced with graffiti just after being repainted. Ephesus Seventh-day Adventist Primary School in Belize City was also broken into, and valuable classroom supplies were stolen. These events interrupt learning, hurt morale, and force schools to spend money on repairs instead of education.

Vandalism also affects the wider community. The Orange Walk Town Council has reported repeated damage to public property such as street signs and lights. In San Ignacio, Bishop Martin R.C. School lost over $11,000 worth of equipment after a major burglary. Crimes like these make neighborhoods feel unsafe and reduce pride in the community.

According to national reports, burglary and property damage have increased across Belize in recent years, showing that vandalism is part of a wider problem. When we allow this kind of behavior to continue, it discourages investment, weakens community trust, and sets a bad example for young people.

Taking a stand against vandalism means protecting our schools, our neighborhoods, and the values of respect and responsibility that keep our communities strong.

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My name is Teiya Gilford and I attend the Vieux Fort Comprehensive Secondary School situated in La Ressource, Vieux Fort. Bullying in my school is a serious issue that affects students' mental health, academic performance, and overall well-being. It involves repeated aggressive behaviors, such as physical, verbal, or social actions, aimed at hurting or intimidating others.

Origin and Impact

Bullying often originates from factors like peer pressure, lack of empathy, or environments where aggression is overlooked. It can start from misunderstandings or social exclusion and gradually escalate. The issue affects victims, who may suffer from anxiety, depression, or physical harm, and bystanders, who might feel powerless or unsure how to help. Even bullies can develop negative tendencies or low self-esteem.

Why it Matters

Addressing bullying is crucial for fostering a safe, inclusive school environment. It influences students' mental health, academic success, and long-term social development. Reliable sources such as the National Bullying Prevention Center show that schools with anti-bullying programs experience fewer incidents and higher student well-being.

Creative Approach and Sources

To share this understanding creatively, I propose designing a digital poster featuring key statistics, a powerful quote like “Bullying is a reflection of their pain, not yours,” and visual elements that promote kindness and respect. I got my information from first hand experience and from the website "StopBullying.gov", which provided me with credible data and prevention strategies.

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Try your best not to make bad decisions; try your best 

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What challenge do you identify in your school or community that you would like to address? What reliable information helps you understand why the situation has arisen and who it affects?

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What challenge do you identify in your school or community that you would like to address? What reliable information helps you understand why the situation has arisen and who it affects?

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Hello, my name is Xavi Galvez, and I am from San Jose Succotz, Cayo, Belize. I am currently attending Alvin L. Young Nazarene High School. And these are the following challenges I ask myself about.

The first challenge I have is, why can't drunkers in my community stop drinking? What I saw on my dad’s friend, based on why they drink often, is, “Many of us have different problems that cause us to drink often; in my case, I drink a lot to get relief from the problems I face in life.”  The other said, “I drink a lot just to party with friends; it looks too girly to not drink.” So this proves why many drunkards keep drinking in my community.

The other challenge is, why can’t people in my community and school obey orders? A teen and an adult told me that they break rules to show off to others, to show they are not weak or no one can run over them. Also, they said that the reason they break rules many times is because they have a great lack of understanding of the great consequence it has on them if they disobey.

The last challenge in my community/school that I am trying to understand is why people can’t learn from their mistakes and why they can’t try their best to avoid ending up in the same place as before. So this is what I got based on what my friends said: they try, but it is hard to avoid it. They said that in life it is hard to get rid of the challenges in life. Maybe they learned, and we as judgers don't look at it that way; we judge as always.

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Hello, my name is Kalyssa Natta. I am a student of Pleasantville Secondary School in Trinidad and Tobago. Poor/Late attendance is a very prominent problem in my school, especially with form 6 students. This problem is so extreme that within the first week of school re-opening, all form 6 students, including new ones were spoken to about making an effort to show up to school everyday and on time. Since I am a new form 6 student myself, I have not yet witnessed the effects of students staying home often. This is why I asked some of my upper 6 classmates to speak on their experience with students showing up to school late or even not showing up at all. By speaking with them I was able to understand just how much of a serious matter this actually is. In the video you will hear about how these 3 students were affected by this problem. After watching the video, I hope all students would let this be a reminder of just how important it is to make an effort to come out to school, on time and learn.

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Hi there! I am Ariany Perez and I'm from San Roman Village, Corozal, Belize. An issue that I have seen in both at my community and high school (ESTM) is the poor garbage disposal. Too often, do I walk home and see garbage along the road side. Too often, do I see students leave their garbage on the picnic tables. And though we have janitors that help keep the school clean, it should our responisbility to keep the earth clean. This is an issue that I believe not only ESTM has to deal with both also many other communities. Let's take an initiative and be friends with nature. Afterall, a clean school today, a better Belize tomorrow.

P.s. the flyer has more information

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Lack of Youth Involvement in Agriculture 

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Lack of Youth Involvement in Agriculture 

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My name is Caylee H. Mohammed and I am currently a Form Five student enrolled at St. Stephen’s College situated in Princes Town, Trinidad. The challenge within my community that I have chosen to highlight is “The Lack of Youth Involvement in Agriculture”. Historically, agriculture has played a fundamental role in the Princes Town community.  However, as time progressed, there was a profound shift towards extensive urbanization, transforming agricultural land to landscapes of modern development. This caused a decline in the agriculture workforce while the age of current farmers increased with an average range between 50 to 60 years old. With inadequate amounts of youths being involved in the agriculture sector to replace the aging farming population, this scenario presents several challenges.

Resources:

“Impact of Agriculture in T&T.” 2025. Trinidad and Tobago Guardian. September 18, 2025.

https://www.guardian.co.tt/business/impact-of-agriculture-in-tt-6.2.2403332.a6dbbfcaa0

“The Town of Princes.” 2021. Trinidad Express Newspapers. January 21, 2021.

https://trinidadexpress.com/features/local/the-town-of-princes/article_ac78ae46-52e0-11e8-b8b4-cb76cea286dc.html

Interview:

Renold Ramdial MPhil, BSc. Agronomist (Ag.). Ministry of Agriculture and Fisheries. October 22, 2025.

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My name is Yahna Delice and i am a student of the Castries Comprehensive Secondary School.

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My name is Yahna Delice and i am a student of the Castries Comprehensive Secondary School.

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I would like to talk about gang violence. This is a serious issue that is normalized in the entire country. Half of todays youth own firearms, and are affiliated with gangs. Over 30 people lose their life to this, per year, and though it may not seem like alot the number is steadily increasing. A good amount of these deaths are innoccent bystanders trying to live their daily life, getting caught in the middle of the "gang wars". I am deeply disappointed in today's youth for not knowing any better and ruining their lives because the want to feel "included". Sadly i dont think there is much we could do to prevent this issue, as nothing has seemed to work before. The isnt any point in talking because they just wont listen. Jail doesnt help either; by the time they are free, they fall back into old habits. The only thing we could do now is hope the next generation is smart enough to know that gang life is no life and that they should think about theyre future.

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Emissions Release From a Beverage Producing Company

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Emissions Release From a Beverage Producing Company

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Hello everyone. This is Elizabeth De Jonge, seventeen years of age currently a CAPE student at Diamond Secondary School in region four (4) on the East Bank of Guyana. I reside in Diamond, a vast community.

Within my community, Demerara Distillers Limited (DDL), a reliable leading manufacturing company and an international recognized producer of award winning runs is present for three centuries. DDL is now the leading producer of non-alcoholic beverages in Guyana. However,  due to the fact that it is a rum producing company fumes are continuously released, specifically whiskey fungus scientifically known as Baudoinia compniacensis. This involves black fungus being released during the aging of spirits like whiskey and rum, because of this, surrounding buildings and trees close to DDL is covered in black coating that causes aesthetic and property damage to the homes. The trees' barks and leaves are damaged due to prolonged coating of the fungus which caused an unsightly view to onlookers. Similarly, locals of the area complain of the foul order hindering outdoor activities and family time. Due to my distance from the factory, I am unable to smell the odor, but a lesson teacher whom I inquired of in First Avenue  reported of when the fumes are released the students complain of the terrible odor. Despite my distance from the factory occasionally commute is done to be in town. On this journey the gas emmited is unavoidable and with questions conducted with passengers many agreed that the scent should not be something they have to endure on their journey. A lady reported " This scent used to be worst. On my way home from school I would get a nerve wrecking headache and can not eat for about an hour later".  Another agreed by saying " That is one of the reasons I did not want to go Camiles'' a Secondary school within the area.
In conclusion, despite Demerara Distillers Limited (DDL) being a wonderful contribution to society, its process of accomplishment negatively affects close residents.