CANING as a form of punishment does more harm than good to students. In this day and age, parents and teachers can do a better job of instilling discipline in children.
Caning not only causes physical pain but mental and emotional distress. It induces fear and hatred rather than respect; it erodes confidence and self-esteem.
Teachers should be more professional and compassionate in dealing with problematic students. If need be, trained counsellors and child psychologists should be brought in.
As a tertiary student, I feel that caning is not the way to correct wayward students. A lot can be overcome by approaching them with love and understanding.
A good relationship between teachers and students is most important.
UTHAYAKUMAR TECHINAMOORTHY
Source: The STAR Online Home Education Sunday June 10, 2012