Charge them, yes, but ...
Published:Saturday | September 4, 2010 | 12:00 AM
The Editor, Sir:
I endorse Education Minister Andrew Holness's proposal that parents who refuse to send their children to school be arrested and charged. However, there are a lot of issues that need to be sorted out with regard to our education system and the present state of the Jamaican economy.
Many parents are having a hard time trying to make ends meet because of several social and personal issues. Even as the minister has called on parents to be more resourceful and consistent in ensuring that their children attend school, perhaps the Government should consider compulsory education.
Compulsory education
Compulsory education is in place in many countries. Some countries differ in the length of time that they require young citizens to receive state-approved education. While some economists and libertarians have argued that compulsory education takes up a great deal of the individual child's time and is imposed on them without their consent or with due regard to their own interests, I am of the view that Jamaica would certainly benefit if the education system were amended in such a way so that compulsory education could be introduced.
While Mr Holness argued that "poverty would no longer be accepted as a reason for a child not to attend school, and adults in charge could face penalties under the Education Act and the Child Care and Protection Act for their absence", I believe that poverty is one of the main hindrances to many students not attending school on a regular basis. Poverty and illiteracy go hand in hand, therefore, there must be an intervention.
Attendance zones
Mr Holness also mentioned that he was considering certain areas declared compul-sory attendance zones under the Education Act. If he does, he should introduce it to the entire country.
Jamaica's education system is improving - to some extent - and it takes supportive parents, an education minister with a vision, caring and qualified teachers, students who are willing to learn, a private sector that is able to assist and a government willing to invest in education in order for us to compete in a global economy. Education is freedom to excel.
I am, etc.,
CHARLIE BROWN