Dear Editor,
The refusal to rescind the controversial reappointment to Queen’s College of a former Deputy Principal contravenes the statutes governing the education system and if swept under the carpet, will set a dangerous precedent for the rest of the education sector.
Both the Chairman of the QC Board of Governors, Mr Laurie Lewis, and Minister of Education, Mr Shaik Baksh happen to be alumni of the prestigious institution and are often the banner-bearers of the culture and traditions of the college. Both are well-educated, and typical of the individuals the school has churned out into the society since its inception. However, they expose themselves to accusations of double standards when a decision like this is made, especially given the manner in which it was made. The teachers were not consulted prior to the re-appointment and they were told they could challenge the decision if they wanted. It is a matter of concern that educators, who are responsible for moulding the minds of the young, should be treated with such contempt.
Meanwhile, as those in authority seek the upper hand in this impasse, they should spare a thought for the little people they were ultimately appointed to serve: the students – the future of this country.
As students of a bygone era when teachers were venerated and mores were rigidly upheld, I am sure they never had cause to spend hours in the classrooms in idleness, while the Minister of Education and Chairman were at odds with educators. An error has been made, and they now should seek to correct it; we students should not have to endure being unable able to enjoy academic instruction from our teachers.
Does this fit into the agenda for the development of the nation’s youth? The examination students are being denied assistance with their School Based Assessments; they are denied being given routine assessments to keep them prepped for their examinations; they are being denied the opportunity to complete the syllabi, etc. Does this all fit into the Chairman’s grand design for the continued success of our auspicious institution? Is this how the Board and the Minister expect us to maintain the legacy of Forbes Burnham, Cheddi Jagan, and more recently, Daniel Ram, Yana Edwards and Kia Persaud?
The Old Boys should recognize that the brouhaha is having collateral damage. The students are suffering while the parties involved seek victory in this meaningless campaign against the teachers. In addition, the students whose parents would have doled out hard-earned money to send them to school, would have lost out.
Yours faithfully,
(Name and address provided)
