THE EDITOR, Sir:
THERE HAS been a disturbing situation in Jamaica for quite a number of years because of the behaviour of teachers regarding salary, working hours, working conditions, etc. In addition to this, the Jamaica Teachers' Association is advocating for the 'upgrading of teachers', thus putting pressure on the Government to address the demand and requirements of teachers.
Which should be the priority, upgrading of teachers or ungrading of students?
Upgrading teachers to university degree is not the solution to the education system in Jamaica. Jamaica needs teachers who have knowledge of the facts (most importantly the English language) and are dedicated to impart, with the chief aim that students learn, bearing in mind that a "teacher has not taught until the students learn."
A system effort has to be implemented to teach 'reading' throughout all the grades in all the schools, firstly before forcing other subjects on the students. No subject can be done without 'reading'. Requiring a child to do other subjects without him/her being able to read is like leading a horse to the water and forcing him to drink.
The education system now needs a transformation, so it's up to those who are in charge of the process to move speedily and wisely, otherwise the system will be on collapsible grounds in the very near future.
I am, etc.,
FITZROY WHYTE
Littled_1969@yahoo.com
