The 'futility' of a tertiary education THE EDITOR, Sir: I AM responding to the letter written by 'frustrated' of St. Catherine. Frustrated wanted to know what is the meaning of acquiring a tertiary level education in Jamaica? I'll tell you. It means nothing, frustrated! I've always believed that certain factors other than obtaining a degree in Jamaica usually decide how beneficial a tertiary level education will be to a person. Factors such as race, socioeconomic background, or downright discrimination can get in the way even if you have two degrees such as in your case. I am not saying all of these factors apply to you, but my experiences have taught me that there are enough cross currents with regards to race consciousness that are embedded in the Jamaican psyche (black versus brown) as well as the tendency to stick one's nose up after learning where one's fellow brother or sister resides (uptown as opposed to downtown). Or the inherent privilege system in place which reserves jobs in many companies, corporations or government agencies for people with family or political 'contacts'. But 'Frustrated' you actually answered your own question, which is, education is for "self actualisation" and no, it is not meant to "assist humans" in "developing self and the nation on the whole". If that were the case, nobody would have heard from you. I am etc., MICHAEL PARKIN E-mail: kegshead@aol.com Via Go-Jamaica
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