KCCCI: Reconsider stopping computer classes during school hours
KOTA KINABALU: Kota Kinabalu Chinese Chamber of Commerce and Industry (KKCCCI) president Datuk Michael Lui yesterday urged Education Minister Maszlee Malik to consider withdrawing his order to Chinese vernacular schools to cease conducting paid computer classes during school hours.
Lui said Chinese primary schools in Sabah have been providing computer literacy classes for students to acquire the necessary computer skills in this technological age.
Due to high costs incurred in setting up a computer class, schools have resorted to engaging computer suppliers in setting up the equipment and charging a fee for the classes, he said.
He said Chinese primary schools have been charging around RM10 a month for the computer classes for many years.
"I sincerely urge the public to view the matter in a more open, positive perspective.
"Don't put a stop to the existing computer classes. Don't take away the opportunity for our children to learn computer skills."
Lui called on Maszlee to be openminded and consider withdrawing the ban on paid computer classes offered by Chinese vernacular schools during school hours.
He hoped that the Education Ministry would defer the ban or else the existing computers, teaching materials and instructors would all be wasted.
Lui also concurred with the suggestion that the government should provide the funding and qualified instructors for the computer classes as well as to include the lesson into the syllabus of Chinese vernacular schools.
"It is our fervent hope that schools will be allowed to conduct paid computer classes before the Education Ministry and other relevant authority decide on whether these classes should be conducted after school hours or as extracurricular activity."
At the same time, he hoped that the relevant Chinese education organizations in the State would come together to discuss a solution for Chinese primary schools.
Lui said KKCCCI in its committee meeting recently had resolved that the four Chinese primary schools under its management would abide by the Education Ministry's order to cease paid computer classes during school hours temporarily.
"Our limited computer rooms cannot accommodate all the pupils if the classes are to be conducted as extracurricular activity.
"We are currently discussing and coordinating ways to resolve this matter."