Teachers’ colleges feel financial squeeze

With the 2020-21 academic year fast approaching, some teachers’ colleges are reporting that they are facing financial challenges as the COVID-19 pandemic has put increased pressure on the institutions to secure resources to meet the needs of staff and students.

Principal of The Mico University College, Dr Asburn Pinnock, told The Gleaner that while the education ministry has been receptive to its needs, the institution would still have to seek help elsewhere.

“We have made official appeals. The ministry has asked us for what we require. They have shown a willingness to assist,” he said.

Pinnock said a roster will be established to keep deans and heads of departments alerted to the number of people on campus at a time but online classes will be given more emphasis to further enforce social distancing. He added that plans are in place to assist with online learning.

“We are aware of cases with limited availability and connectivity. We reserve space on campus for people with those issues. We are seeking support for students and teachers in terms of resources. We have asked for additional laptops and tablets,” he explained.

Pinnock said that the pandemic has highlighted the importance of accessibility to technology in modern times, especially in the education sector.

“We are preparing students to function effectively. If we don’t move with it, we’ll get left behind. The Government needs to play a role. They need to find resources for people in rural areas,” he said.

Mico is not the only teachers’ college that has been dealt a blow by the pandemic.

Students lack internet access

Principal of Shortwood Teachers’ College, George Dawkins, told The Gleaner that purchasing sanitisation equipment has affected the school’s finances.

He added that surveys carried out by the school have shown that many students do not have access to facilities required for online learning.

“About 16-20 per cent of our students either have limited Internet access, no Internet at all or no devices. We’re also seeking to provide lecturers devices but we’re not in a position to provide for all of them. We can’t finance all of that. We’re hoping to ask institutions or companies to allow students Internet access,” he explained.

He said the Ministry of Education has pledged to provide assistance to the institution.

“Realistically, the Government has already been stretched by the pandemic. We have provided a budget to the ministry. The ministry has been supportive, so we are hopeful,” he said.