Education Minister warns of social media impact on young people’s mental health

In his message marking the start of the new school year, the minister stressed that technology is becoming increasingly important in education. Digital learning tools and artificial intelligence, he said, offer major opportunities to expand knowledge and support the personal development of pupils.

At the same time, he warned of the downside. “The same technology can also have negative consequences when used irresponsibly,” the minister stated. Parents, teachers and pupils are therefore urged to use mobile phones, social media and AI applications consciously.

The minister also pointed to the possible impact of increasing screen time and constant digital stimuli on the wellbeing of young people. He appealed to parents and teachers to recognise signals in time and pay more attention to what concerns young people.

“Listen to our young people. Talk to them. Show interest in their feelings and offer support when necessary,” he said. According to the minister, a healthy mind is an important condition for being able to learn well and develop optimally.

Education for everyone

In his message, the minister further stated that education policy rests on two important principles: no one may be left behind, and education must be accessible to everyone who wishes to develop.

According to him, every child in Suriname deserves the opportunity to discover and fully develop their talents, regardless of background, place of residence or financial situation. Although a solution has not yet been found for every problem within education, he stated that the new school year is starting better prepared than the previous one.

Pupils and students were called upon to show discipline, commitment and perseverance from the first school day. “Every school day is an investment in yourself,” he told them.

Parents and guardians also play a crucial role, according to the minister. They are asked to show interest in their children’s school performance, motivate them and, where possible, provide the necessary support.

Appreciation for teachers must increase

The minister also expressed his appreciation for teachers and school leaders. He acknowledged that the social and financial appreciation for their work is not yet at the level where, according to the government, it should be.

“Your work goes far beyond transferring knowledge. You inspire, guide, motivate and shape young people into responsible citizens,” he said.

According to the government, education is one of the most important investments in Suriname’s future and an important driver of economic and social development and the creation of equal opportunities.

Appeal to the business community

The business community is also being asked to make a greater contribution to education. According to the minister, cooperation with schools, including through internships, guest lessons, practical experience and support for educational projects, can help better prepare young people for the labour market.

“Good education is not solely the responsibility of the Ministry of Education, Science and Culture. It is a shared responsibility of all of us,” the minister said.

He stressed that Suriname’s future does not depend solely on natural resources. “Our greatest wealth is our human capital.”

The minister concluded his message with an appeal to society to give young people confidence, guide them and work together towards an education system in which talent is developed, opportunities are created and no one is left behind.