MINISTER OF HOUSING AND LANDS Michael Lashley has thrown his support behind the standardised dress code for secondary school students.

Speaking at Garrison Secondary School's graduation ceremony on Saturday at Hilton Barbados, he said the way a person dressed was a form of discipline that often endured into adulthood.

"I fully support the principals on the issue of the dress code. That is a form of discipline which can carry through to adult life. To some it may be a small thing, but I have seen instances where small things have a life-altering impact.

"We've lost too many young people to indiscipline and now is the time to put this society back on track. Young people are the future of this country and we must do whatever is necessary within the law to protect them," said Lashley.

From September 2 when the new school year starts, all secondary school students have to comply with the rules that state how uniforms for both boys and girls are to be worn. All principals have signed on to the rules.

Support children

Lashley, a former student of the Garrison, also urged parents to support their children in whatever venture they undertook and to do more than just buy material things for them.

"You must practise what you preach. Double standards only send confusing signals to children. The provision of material things must not be a substitute for good guidance and firm instructions. Always ensure that your child remains of good character, and teach them how to become a responsible and productive citizen," he advised.

"Parents, I appeal to you to look after your children. Far too often in my previous profession as a criminal lawyer, I encountered parents who only awoke after the police arrested their children. Too often parents realised too late that material things were a poor substitute for firm parental discipline," Lashley added.

The minister told graduates that if they believed in something, they could achieve it. He also told them they must improve on their weak areas, "consolidate" their strengths, have the right attitude, and surround themselves with positive role models.

"Avoid prophets of gloom and doom who will try to tell you that you don't have the ability," he said. (DS)