EDITORIAL - Fathers' role in September frenzy

Students may not be ready for summer to end, but like it or not, the classroom will become the focus of attention within a few days. And as the new school year beckons, we expect that preparations will be in full swing this weekend. The usual images of book- and clothes-buying frenzy can be expected in the commercial districts across the country.

We can also expect to hear mothers complaining about the high prices and their inability to make ends meet as they try to outfit their children for school. These are tough times financially, with astronomical light bills and other costs on the rise, plus new needs to be met. Without the ability to rely on a father's assistance, many mothers are unable to cope.

It seems that the burden for preparing the child rests unfairly on the shoulders of mothers who usually have custody of the children. Even if the absentee father provides financial support, he also needs to do more.

There is overwhelming evidence that parental involvement in a child's education makes a positive difference. Policymakers and educators agree that strong parental involvement in a child's education invariably leads to success. However, 'parent' does not mean mother only. For this reason, we feel it is opportune to encourage fathers to become involved in the preparation exercise and to continue being part of their children's lives throughout the school year.

Important stakeholders

The hope behind the views expressed here is that more fathers will take seriously their responsibility to see to their children's education. No matter their own educational status or income, fathers are important stakeholders in the process of child-rearing.

Research shows that even if the father is not living in the same home as the child, he can become involved and provide a positive role model. A significant number of Jamaican children live in single-family homes, and the involvement of the father is impacted by that fact. Non-residential fathers must devise ways and means to contribute to their children's emotional and social development.

Education Minister Andrew Holness understands only too well that how children perform in school will certainly determine the future of the country, for we need people equipped with knowledge and problem-solving skills to take the country further.

The minister has been talking about responsibility: of parents, teachers, the Government and the students themselves. He has also been talking about ways of solving truancy and violence, financial difficulties, and funding university education. All of this indicates that the revolution required in education is still a far way off.

Quality education is what every child needs to ensure a bright future, and the father's input is necessary to ensure the best potential academic success.

The opinions on this page, except for the above, do not necessarily reflect the views of The Gleaner. To respond to a Gleaner editorial, email us: editor@gleanerjm.com or fax: 922-6223. Responses should be no longer than 400 words. Not all responses will be published.