Promoting discipline, respect among children

IN Papua New Guinea, nurturing discipline and respect in children is fundamental to fostering a society of law and order.
As the saying goes: “Train a child in the way he should go, and when he is old, he will not depart from it” (Proverbs 22:6).
This wisdom highlights the importance of instilling positive values from early age to shape the future behavior.
Discipline begins at home, where parents and caregivers serve as the role models and guides for children.
Just as a tree needs proper nurturing to grow straight and strong, children require consistent discipline to develop into responsible individuals.
This entails setting clear expectations, enforcing boundaries, and imparting the value of respect for oneself and others.
Respect for authority figures such as teachers and community leaders is crucial for maintaining harmony and order in society.
As Nelson Mandela once said: “Respect is one of the greatest expressions of love.”
When children learn to respect authority, they are more likely to follow rules, cooperate with others, and contribute positively to their communities.
Conversely, the absence of discipline and respect can lead to a myriad of law and order issues.
Without proper guidance, children may resort to delinquent behavior such as theft or violence to resolve conflicts or assert their dominance. This perpetuates a cycle of crime and instability that undermines the fabric of society.
To address these challenges, concerted efforts are needed from families, schools and communities.
By providing parents with resources and support to effectively discipline their children, offering educational programmes that promote respect and conflict resolution skills, and fostering partnerships between law enforcement and community members, we can create a safer and more harmonious environment for all.
In the words of Mahatma Gandhi: “If we are to reach real peace in this world, we shall have to begin with the children.”
By investing in the moral and ethical development of our youth, we lay the foundation for a brighter future where respect, discipline and law and order will prevail in PNG.

Penias Indey
Alotau, Milne Bay