FORMER Prime Minister and former Education Minister has suggested that Ministry of Education and Human Resource Development (MEHRD) should consider a school fee subsidy this year in light of the health and financial challenges.
Dr Derek Sikua in an interview said, the COVID-19 Pandemic has not only affected the education of our children in Solomon Islands but also of all countries around the world.
However, he said, he has all the confidence that responsible authorities have taken into consideration factors to decide the resumption of classes next week.
“I have confidence and trust that relevant government authorities and in particular the Ministry of Education have fully considered all factors in deciding to resume classes for the 2022 school year,” he said.
He highlighted that about 12 weeks of formal instruction time would have been lost already.
“But I am sure all school management and teachers are professionals enough to find ways to cover the syllabus,” he said.
The former education ministry permanent secretary said, the pressure to complete the academic year within a short period of time will be huge for both teachers and students.
“I pity our teachers because they will certainly feel squeezed and, of course, all our children will certainly feel the pressure, especially classes taking both national and external examinations.
“But these are not normal times so I ask everyone to work extra hard and help each other wherever possible,” he said.
He added, all parents and guardians will also be under great pressure to pay school fees.
Therefore, he suggested, in all fairness, MEHRD should consider recommending to Government a 50% reduction across the board for school fees this year.
“Or Better still, fee free for basic education levels up to Form 3; and 50% reduction from Form 4 – 5,” he said.
Schools nation-wide remained close for nearly four months after the first COVID-19 community transmission was first detected in mid January, a week before classes were expected to start.
Since then all schools remain close and teachers and students enjoyed their long break.
Following an assessment by the Oversight Committee, schools have been recommended to start next week.
Most schools will commence registration this week.
By MOFFAT MAMU
