Overhaul elitist school system

THE EDITOR, Sir: JAMAICA’S EDUCATION system is designed to create an elite and a majority failing underclass. Albert Einstein said, “Everyone is a genius. But if you judge a fish by its ability to climb a tree, it will live its whole life believing it is stupid.” This is what is happening to the majority of our youth in the education system.

It is difficult to implement change in the education systems of Belize and the Caribbean because the decision-makers are beneficiaries of the present system. They blame the individual for their inability to progress. Teachers also get the blame for poor student performance. The system is doing what is designed to – create a ruling elite and a majority servile class.

Our ruling class thinks there is nothing wrong with the system, but there are lazy people who cause trouble to the society. When I used to mark the Caribbean Secondary Education Certificate, I tried to convince some higher-ups that the examinations need reform, but was unsuccessful. Since that body is the examining body for the region and Jamaica, it is integral to educational reform.

A plan must be developed and implemented to change Jamaica’s education system. It cannot just superficial focus on issues such as teacher training and remedial classes for students. The system must aim at developing students’ abilities. The present system aims to select the better students, which is inherently discriminating. I contend that it is an unjust system. No justice, no peace.

BRIAN PLUMMER brianplummer@yahoo.com