Minister of Education Shaik Baksh says the ministry is considering introducing relief teachers in the school system to fill the void created by teachers on maternity and Whitley Council leave.
In a meeting with head-teachers in regions five and six on Friday, Baksh indicated that the ministry is working with the Teaching Service Commission (TSC) to ensure all the advertised vacancies are filled in a timely manner.
According to a Government Information Agency press release several other concerns were raised including the need for audio visual devices/materials to assist low achievers, timely delivery of IRI resources/equipment, limited texts, timely delivery of juice and biscuits for feeding programme and the need for a specially assigned officer to ensure hinterland schools in the said regions receive materials.
As regard the need for audio visual materials, Baksh encouraged teachers to use modern technology to assist in the learning process. He added that modules are currently being developed particularly for students in grades seven, eight and nine. He also noted that government’s One Laptop Per Family initiative can help to boost the education system since more persons would have access to the internet and by extension more information.
With respect to learning materials, Baksh noted that each school should be accountable for their text books. In instances where students do not return the texts, parents should be held accountable. On this point, he also noted that it was important that schools maintain a register to keep track of students and aid in the distribution and management of school texts. The minister also reiterated that low achievers should be enrolled in the Secondary Competency Certificate Programme, an alternative pathway for them to gain an education.
In an effort to keep abreast with the current technological drive the ministry facilitates training for IT teachers countrywide. So far 2000 teachers have been trained. In addition, $24.3B has been allocated in the 2011 National Budget to implement programmes and policies in the education system.
