Jamaica’s children are again being encouraged to exercise safeguards, in light of rising numbers of youngsters being reported missing.

This appeal comes from Education Minister Fayval Williams, who says while there was a gradual decline in the number of children reported missing, particularly during the period of the COVID-19 pandemic between 2020 and 2021, there has been an increase since 2022.

She was speaking during an Ananda Alert Youth Forum at the Altamont Court Hotel in New Kingston on Thursday (May 25).

The event was organised by the Child Protection and Family Services Agency (CPFSA) in recognition of International Missing Children’s Day (IMCD).

Williams said the most significant reduction in the number of children reported missing, according to the CPFSA, was 30 per cent for 2020, compared to 2019, and just over 16 per cent for 2021.

However, she said the first signs of a resurgence were noted in 2023, pointing out that “it was about 6.1 per cent more reports than were made in 2021”.

“In 2022, as well, you know the restrictions were lifted in terms of COVID… and our children went back to face-to-face [classes] fully. So, unfortunately, we are seeing an increase, again, in missing children,” Williams stated, while emphasising the forum’s importance.

According to the minister, in safeguarding themselves, children should be especially cautious when interacting online.

“Not everyone you meet online is who they say they are, and there are people out there who may take advantage of you. It starts with a benign conversation… and before you know it, you’re someplace where you should not be,” she underscored.

Williams also encouraged youngsters to be aware of their surroundings at all times.

“When you are out and about, pay attention to the people around you and be aware of anything that is out of the ordinary. If you see something that makes you uncomfortable, trust your instincts and remove yourself from the situation,” she said.

Minister Williams further encouraged youngsters to reach out to a trusted friend, family member or authority figure if they feel unsafe.

Children may also report cases of abuse any time of the day, by calling the 211 helpline to get the necessary assistance.

Meanwhile, Williams explained that the CPFSA continues to work in tandem with the Jamaica Constabulary Force (JCF) and other stakeholder entities to ensure that a broad blanket of support is provided for the nation’s children.

“We work to provide assistance to the parents and caregivers of students. Additionally, we also have another entity called the National Parenting Support Commission that helps parents with parenting. We’ve been training parent mentors to help parents out there, all across Jamaica,” she said.

International Missing Children’s Day (IMCD), which is observed annually on May 25, is dedicated and serves to generate public awareness about youngsters who have been kidnapped or otherwise gone missing.