As I read of the desperate measures being taken by some parents towards ensuring their children are receiving an education during this pandemic. I cannot help thinking that not enough is being done by the Government to ensure that our nation’s children are not left behind. In a recent visit to a local Internet cafe I observed two young children with their school books, an ear plug sitting in this small crowded retail shop trying to do online schooling on the computer, this was when I realised the seriousness of this situation. Whilst I try to put this from my mind, today’s headline “Online Schooling by the Roadside” (Gleaner, October 21) further sent reminders to me that I need to share with Jamaicans my concern and support of the cry of these parents in their desperate need. This, I trust, will help bring more attention to their plight in an effort to return some element of normality to educating our children.
I also ponder the thought on the continuation of policy that keeps all schools across our island closed. The continued lack of traditional teaching in traditional classrooms, coupled with the lack of resources to reach the masses, particularly those in rural areas must be returned to normalcy. Special consideration should be given to those with special needs and those from lower socio-economic backgrounds, should be urgently reviewed. Already there has been concern regarding learning capacity and the health nutrition impact on our children depending on their socio-economic background. (Clarke et.al,1991).
Whilst I understand the challenges for our country from this global pandemic, we have found ways to re-open our international borders, and all but few industries have remained closed. The Ministry of education had promised the reopening of our schools for this school term; however, this has not happened with the recent announcement and protocol which has prohibited all schools against reopening and instead classes are being held online.
Jamaica should best adopt the protocol of other countries in making efforts to return to classroom education, recognising the important role of traditional learning on the mental health and wellbeing of our children.
