OCHO RIOS:
THE SHIFT system instituted in the 1970s must be abolished and the government must do away with its proposed free education, as it will not be sustainable, so says Professor Barry Chevannes, Dean of the Faculty of Social Sciences at the University of the West Indies.
He was presenting a seven-point proposal for an education system that equally embraces academics and moral values, at the opening session of the 39th annual Jamaica Teachers' Association (JTA) conference at the Renaissance, Jamaica Grande on Monday.
"Schools on the shift system affords students no extra-curricular activities since, when classes are over, the morning students must make way for the evening and both sets of children spend their extra-curricular time on the street," he said.
And, according to Professor Chevannes, free education is not desirable at this time. "What is desirable is better quality and if the issue is where to put the resources, I argue that it must be put towards improving the quality." He explained that emphasis should be placed on the socialising of our children into the values that guarantee the sustaining and development of civilisation.
Professor Chevannes said the working conditions of teachers must be systematically and incrementally improved to restore the teaching profession to the ranks as one of the most respected. "If we are serious about the socialisation of our children, then those to whom have been entrusted major share of the task are to be treated with the level of respect and training they deserve," he said.
He suggested that the proposed payment of teachers based on their performance ensure that they are assessed in mentoring and transforming students, as much as it evaluates their success in the literacy and knowledge of their students.
He proposed that the pupil/teacher ratio be further lowered from 40 (students) to one (teacher) to 25/1. "Ratios of this magnitude allow teachers to know their students and to give them the personalised attention they need and deserve."
Importantly, Professor Chevannes said the success of a renewed educational system depends on the support of the community.
- Damion Mitchell
