The education ministry is calling on students to report bullying and for parents to build supportive homes in an effort to boost safety for the island’s children.

The ministry is also highlighting counselling and community care as key tools to protect children.

The call follows the suspected suicide of a 16-year-old Holmwood Technical High School student from Trelawny, which occurred over the weekend and is believed to be linked to bullying.

The ministry says this heartbreaking incident has shaken the nation and underscores the urgent need to confront bullying, strengthen mental health support and address the pressures faced by Jamaica’s young people.

The ministry states that the timing of this tragedy is particularly poignant, coming just days after world suicide prevention day, observed on September 10, as a global reminder that suicide is preventable through awareness, support and collective action.

During that observance, education and youth minister  Dr. Dana Morris Dixon reaffirmed the ministry’s commitment to strengthening student support systems.

Considering the recent tragedies, she stressed that this commitment must now translate into urgent national action.

Dr. Morris Dixon notes that no child should feel that they are alone or without hope and that together, the nation must ensure that schools and communities are safe havens of care, support and encouragement.

Echoing the minister’s call, permanent secretary, Dr. Kasan Troupe, emphasizes the ministry’s determination to act and highlights mental health as a pressing national concern.

Dr. Troupe says the ministry is deeply concerned about the impact of bullying and the growing challenges of student mental health.

The ministry is urging students to speak out and report incidents of bullying and teachers to remain vigilant and respond swiftly to signs of distress.

Parents are also urged to maintain open dialogue with their children, pay close attention to behavioural changes and seek help if they suspect their child is struggling.

The ministry says warning signs such as withdrawal, avoidance of school, mood changes, or expressions of hopelessness must never be ignored.

Immediate support is also available through safe spot at 888-723-3776 or the Child Protection and Family Services Agency (CPFSA) child protection hotline at 211.