Dear Editor,
The Tagore Memorial Secondary School is an educational institution of distinction and dynamism. It was just one of the organizations that I attended but it was a school which had a tremendous influence on my growth and development even at such a tender age. The school in itself, named after a great poet and internationally recognized philosopher is one which conceptualized wisdom and the greatness of this school. Past students both young and old can be found worldwide in all diameters of employment whether it is business, science, agriculture, politics, entertainment or trade. The school has produced an abundance of well-equipped men and women engaged in all sectors of life.
As such, it came as a grave surprise and disappointment to learn of the teacher who is allegedly involved in the distribution of drugs to students of the school. It was a further disappointment to learn that he is still teaching at this fine establishment. It was moreover incontrovertibly disappointing to discover the weak stance of the Government in dealing with him and such persons alike. It is my view that persons who sexually, emotional, physically and verbally abuse our children should have their names and pictures published on a website so that the general public can know who to be on the lookout for. After being prosecuted by the law, they should have to seek permission from the authorities and citizenry in any area in order to set up housing, job placement and health care.
The ferocity of my feelings on this matter may not be adequately expressed in this letter but I must remind the public of the landmark establishment that is the Tagore Memorial High School. It is my Alma Mater. I recall attending extra lessons on Saturdays and Sundays for free and this was done despite the low–paying salaries at that time. Teachers were highly motivated for the success of their students and were well respected in those days. They would even encourage students to visit their home for corrections and further reading materials. Today, teachers are abusing our females and corrupting the minds of our males. We must come to a place of care for our young people where we instill positive values in them without impeding compulsory learning and educational methods. I would like to call for the Government to investigate this ongoing matter at the Tagore Institution. The persons who are afraid to speak out and who may be afraid of job loss and victimization must remember that they are the framers and protectors of our children. The Tagore Memorial High School and any other educational institution must be cleansed of these idiosyncrasies.
Yours faithfully,
Hajji Roshan Khan
National Chairman of UPF- Guyana
