Dear Editor,
These days when the pages of the Guyana papers, certainly the internet versions, are filled with stories of political discord, intrigues and violence of all sorts, it is wonderful to wake up on a Sunday morning and read the heartwarming story of Jeremiah Bentham and his mother Ihebaa (‘Mother’s support reason for NGSA success,’ Sunday Stabroek, June 22).
Through your letters column, please permit me to extend heartiest congratulations to this young man for his outstanding performance and equally to his mother for her commitment, dedication and sacrifices for her son’s education. This is not a wealthy family.
The mother works as a cook in a canteen and supplements the family’s income by making and selling fudge, and Jeremiah is a student of the public school system. It is clear that Jeremiah’s success is due, to a large extent, to his natural talent and his mother’s support.
In its attempt to improve education standards in Guyana, the Ministry of Education has often focused on the building of schools and teacher education. While these initiatives are important, educators often forget that parental involvement in the education of their children is equally, or perhaps more important. This is a critical area but, unfortunately, is given little or no attention by decision-makers.
Education officials should heed the words of young Jeremiah, “She [his mother] was very much encouraging; she is a hardworking supporting mother who is always there for you at your side whenever you may need her, and she is very understanding. Without her support I really don’t think I would have done this well… She was always like a pusher and every time I felt that it was too difficult for me she was right there to encourage me.”
The reporter notes, “As he [Jeremiah] spoke, Ihebaa Bentham sat looking at her son, her eyes brimming with tears, and she spoke later of the many mornings she sat with him as he studied, and in the afternoons she waited on him after a hard day’s work as he attended lessons.” One can picture the pride and joy and satisfaction of this mother whose sacrifices have been rewarded by the success of her son. Kudos to Jeremiah and Ihebaa.
Yours faithfully,
Harry Hergash