Bullying becoming a growing crisis in Guyana schools

May 18 2026

Concerns are mounting across Guyana over what many educators, parents and social advocates describe as a troubling rise in bullying among school-aged children, with renewed calls being made for urgent intervention both inside classrooms and at home.

In recent months, reports of students being physically assaulted, verbally abused, humiliated on social media and emotionally tormented by their peers have sparked widespread discussion nationwide.

While some incidents have been captured on mobile phones and circulated online, many others reportedly go unreported, leaving victims to suffer in silence.

Education stakeholders warn that bullying is no longer limited to playground teasing, but has evolved into a serious social issue capable of causing lasting emotional trauma, depression, anxiety and even violent retaliation among young people.

Child advocates have voiced concerns that the problem requires a collective response involving schools, parents, community leaders and law enforcement where necessary.

Teachers are being encouraged to identify warning signs early, while schools are being urged to strengthen anti-bullying policies, counselling services and disciplinary measures aimed at protecting vulnerable students.

At the same time, parents are being reminded that the responsibility does not end at the school gate. Social workers and behavioural specialists argue that many children mirror attitudes and behaviours they are exposed to at home, making parental guidance critical in addressing the issue.

Parents are being encouraged to speak openly with their children about respect, empathy and the consequences of bullying others, both physically and online.

Online advocates also stress the importance of monitoring children’s social media activity, as cyberbullying continues to become increasingly common among teenagers. In several cases, students have reportedly been targeted through embarrassing videos, fake accounts and abusive messages shared online, often intensifying conflicts that begin at school.

Many Guyanese are now calling for stronger national awareness campaigns and more programmes focused on conflict resolution, mental health support and positive youth development. Advocates believe that unless swift action is taken, bullying could continue to spiral into a deeper societal problem affecting not only academic performance, but the overall safety and wellbeing of the nation’s youth.

As the conversation grows louder across the country, one message remains clear: bullying should never be dismissed as “normal childhood behaviour.” Instead, many believe it must be confronted early, firmly and collectively before more young lives are negatively impacted.