THE EDITOR, Sir:
I, AS most Jamaicans, vehemently support the transformation and improvement of the education system. Anyone who travels outside of Jamaica knows that we are highly respected and, in some instances, feared because of our smarts and our drive to advance. In retrospect, the foresight and dedication of our no-nonsense parents/guardians, teachers, neighbours and Sunday/Sabbath school teachers, have produced some of the greatest citizens anywhere in the world.
Let us remember that old saying: 'It takes a village to raise a child'. Raising good citizens requires a collective effort and the home is the incubator of the end product. At present, too many inadequately educated and trained young men and women are becoming parents.
MOTIVATE THE YOUNG PEOPLE
Transforming our present education system and motivating young people to learn would pay exponential dividends for Jamaica. This is where the 'village' comes in. Government is definitely responsible to play its role as well as Jamaicans, home and abroad. Contributions can be financial or through volunteering time.
I would urge the Honourable Portia Simpson Miller, if feasible, to establish an interest-yielding education fund in which the public, home and abroad, can buy shares. This diverse portfolio should reflect a strong confidence in our indigenous companies and institutions. Profits earned would be used to assist in the transformation, continuous growth and maintenance of our education system - academic, technical and agricultural. This could also release funds in the national budget to allay other concerns.
If such a fund already exists or is not possible, I publicly stand corrected on that issue. If and when it does, please provide me with the information so that I can put my money where my mouth is.
I am, etc.,
DESALINI K. DENNISTON
Dennistond@aol.com
Philadelphia, USA
Via Go-Jamaica
