Students of Old Harbour Primary School in St. Catherine gave a splendid cultural performance titled 'Duppy Demonstration' at the Caribbean Child Research Conference, which was held under the theme - 'Promoting child rights through research'. The function was held at the Jamaica Pegasus hotel, New Kingston. - Norman Grindley/Deputy Chief Photographer

Sir Alister McIntyre, Vice Chancellor Emeritus of the University of the West Indies, is calling on the Government to undertake a comprehensive reform of the developmental process of children in an effort to significantly reduce the current levels of crime, violence and abuse.

According to the 2006 Situation Analysis on Excluded Children in Jamaica, situations affecting children include poverty, exclusion and quality education.

The book, which is produced by the United Nations Children's Fund country office, noted that children's right to birth registration, safe and protective environments, family care and love, life skills and opportunity to participate are violated or denied.

Speaking at the Caribbean Child Research Conference, held at the Jamaica Pegasus hotel yesterday, Sir Alister pointed out that areas such as early childhood care and protection, including education, nutrition and health need to be addressed.

Reach the disadvantaged

"Efforts need to be stepped up both in coverage and intensity to reach disadvantaged children in low income and poor neighbourhoods in both rural and urban areas," Sir Alister said.

Efforts to reach this vulnerable group, he noted, can improve the possibilities of employability and help children and young adults to develop their capacity to deal with interpersonal relationships.

Sir Alister also commented that despite the advances that have been made in school enrolment, the educational system remains deficient, especially at the early childhood and primary stages.