THE EDITOR, Sir:
IN RESPONSE to the 'Letter of the Day' by Paul Thompson on July 14, I admit there are inequalities in our education system but the Government is not the sole propeller behind this. Mr. Thompson is right to some extent. More could be done to enhance the facilities and programmes offered at the non-traditional high schools. In fact, it is true that better working conditions at traditional high schools provide those students with a better opportunity to do well but how does this reality manifest itself?
We must recognise that because of their rich history and the scholars that they produce, traditional high schools benefit from hefty donations and investments made by past students. These donations go a far way in creating a more academically conducive environment at these schools.
When an old boys association donates 30 computers, science lab equipment and even football gear, this enables these schools to compete at the highest level and ultimately glean the prestige afforded them by producing more equipped graduates. In light of this fact, therefore, it would be unfair to aver that our leaders are at fault. This is a reality we all must tackle.
The inadequacies of our education system may to some extent contribute to the crime, corruption and political tribalism which plague our society, but is it our biggest problem? These issues are by-products of handicapped family life. We have become a valueless society. The excessive occurrence of ill-equipped youth having children has lead to the problem child syndrome which surfaces in our schools and communities adding injury to our already shaky education system.
How can teenagers who themselves need parenting instil values in children? There are factors which contribute to this, but all must be addressed, if we are to avoid ultimate societal annihilation.
I am, etc.,
LEON FERGUSON
Thegreat1_9@yahoo.com
NCU, Mandeville
