Education Minister Kenson Casimir has called for a balanced and responsible approach to children’s use of social media, as international debate grows over whether minors should face stricter restrictions on digital platforms.
The issue was raised during a June 15 pre-Cabinet press briefing, coming against the backdrop of the United Kingdom’s decision to ban social media use for children under the age of 16.
While acknowledging global concerns over cyberbullying, online predators, and excessive screen time, the Minister stressed that Saint Lucia has not moved toward similar legislative restrictions.
“I think there’s a balance that is required,” Casimir said. “Information technology is very critical to the maturation of individuals and the marketability of young people.”
He noted that digital platforms are not only widely used but have also become tools for productivity and communication in both personal and professional contexts.
“I mean, I use TikTok, I use Instagram, I use Facebook, all with the different reach to see how it is that it can, you know, augment some of the efforts I’m making,” he explained.
However, Casimir emphasized that the growing role of technology must be matched by a strong emphasis on responsible use, particularly among young people.
“I think in the use of information technology, and if we are going to gravitate towards making it mandatory, a huge part of that is the responsible use of that technology,” he said.
Addressing whether the government is considering an age-based ban on social media, the Minister indicated that no such policy decision has been made.
“As to whether or not this government is minded right now to say you cannot use social media until you get to the age of 16, we have not gotten to that point,” Casimir stated.
Instead, he said responsibility should begin at the household level, with parents taking an active role in monitoring their children’s online activity.
“We continue to appeal to each parent to govern their child,” he said.
Casimir added that oversight does not necessarily require external enforcement mechanisms, but rather consistent parental engagement and supervision.
“You do need the actual policing of that. And again, we don’t necessarily need the outside police to do that,” he said. “I think we, as parents, need to take responsibility and police what is going on.”
He further encouraged parents to actively monitor devices to ensure appropriate usage and discipline within the home.
“At some point, at any random point, grab the phone, grab the device, and see what’s going on to ensure that discipline is always, always ahead in the household,” he said.
The Minister also shared his personal approach to parenting in relation to social media and digital access.
“You govern and you say, hey, until you get to 18, some would say until you get to 20, you are not allowed to use your device and have any social media,” Casimir said.
He concluded that access to digital platforms should be tied to maturity and readiness.
“Certainly, that has been my position when it comes to my children. We have that age that we’ve agreed. Until I realize that you are mature enough to engage in social media usage, you are not allowed to,” he said.