The Editor, Sir:

One of the biggest challenges facing the Students' Loan Bureau (SLB) is the high level of delinquency in regards to loan repayment.

The SLB should maintain a 'zero tolerance' for this serious problem, which threatens the viability of the loan scheme and the future of generations of bright students who are looking forward to the bureau for the financing of their educational aspiration.

There are certain measures which are in place to reduce delinquency. At present, the SLB has been publishing the names of delinquent borrowers in the media, in an effort to increase the loan repayment.

Stricter enforcement

In a sense, it serves as a means of enforcement and assurance in regard to the loan repayment. But, due to the fact that SLB loans are revolving and the repayment by one individual benefits another, there should be a stricter enforcement for this serious problem.

Delinquent borrowers should be reminded that, without the SLB, they would be hard-pressed to find a financing institution in Jamaica that would be able to provide loan financing at a good rate of interest, and will wait until completion of studies to begin the repayment process.

Therefore, if the delinquent trend continues, then the SLB should deduct loan payments from the salaries of 'delinquent borrowers' using their TRN number, along with the cooperation of their employers. It is a known fact that most delinquent borrowers are now gainfully employed. Therefore, they should honour their repayment responsibilities in a timely manner.

I am, etc.,

CHARLIE H. BROWN

charliebrown1004@hotmail.com

Morant Bay, St. Thomas