Toni-Ann Bryson, Contributor
A GREAT MANY Jamaicans can attest to the fact that among those persons who have made significant contributions to their lives is the teacher who comes out on top with pleasant thoughts and fond memories.
Teachers are influential especially during those formative years of life when socialisation plays a vital function in the moulding of the adult personality. Hence, positive interaction with such well respected symbols of authority is essential for nation building and the development of responsible citizens.
However, it seems that our present government does not agree with this observation, as over the years teachers have had to struggle for mediocre compensation for their efforts. Like every other citizen, a teacher has to pay utility bills, have families to care for, as well as other personal needs and financial commitments.
Instructing classes of over 50 students at primary level and over 40 at secondary schools, is a crisis in itself, without even considering the ever increasing students to teacher ratio.
To complicate matters, it seems education is only a formality to be obliged, since 18 per cent of the national budget goes to that Ministry. Too often teachers must deal with grossly indisciplined students who have entire school populations at the mercy of their delinquent tendencies. Is it really fair to add more to the already stressful work load and then, in the same breath offer single digit increases in salary?
The Jamaican government needs to adopt a more logical process when allocating funds for domestic needs and progress. This business of exploitation of our teachers and mismanagement of the nation's fund is the handiwork of incompetence and inefficiency.
Our teachers are valuable assets to our system. It is time we acknowledge them with the gratitude they deserve.
Toni-Ann Bryson is a student of Alpha Academy and one of several teenagers whose opinions will appear in this slot each week.
