The Editor, Sir:

I am alarmed at the suggestion made by the Leader of the Opposition for free high school education. I am not stating that it is not a good suggestion, however Jamaica does not have a strong financial foundation to support this kind of proposal.

I am almost sure that other aspects of our economy will be taxed heavily for this free high school education. Jamaicans are quick to say yes this is a good idea, but they need to stop and analyse the situation. We have a significant number of high schools, and if education is free, this will greatly affect the overall budget of the schools and their ability to meet their necessaryfinancial needs. The education system needs an upgrade and we need more high schools.

Make attainable promises

It's good to make promises as they facilitate the whole essence of campaigning. But it's time the politicians adopt a level of responsibility and make attainable promises. Instead of empty strategising, it would benefit our nation for the politicians to strategise with the country in mind and not just to improve their campaign for the sake of winning. I do hope Jamaicans are listening keenly to promises and are analysing the situation to see what makes sense.

Everywhere you turn, you hear the common phrase 'not changing course'. It isn't about changing course, it's about selecting a course that will benefit our country in the long run, a course that facilitates the betterment of our country, one that is led by vision and prayer. It is better to be on a rocky course that provides firm benefits, than on a paved course that causes aggravation and financial devastation. After all, the race is not for the swift but who can endure.

Endurance is only achieved by willpower and firm decisions that benefit the masses. So instead of making suggestions for some extravagant change, how about starting out small and correcting the discrepancies in the various sectors? The course is in the hands of the Jamaican people. We need to look ahead for the possibilities, look above for guidance and look within for vision. That's the course we should be taking.

I am, etc.,

CAMILLE BARRETT

St. Andrew

Via Go-Jamaica

camal86@hotmail.com