State leaders care about children’s education – Mawan

KUCHING: No child should be set back in their education by matters such as being unable to afford school uniforms, books and stationery.

“Those of us in state leadership positions care deeply about the welfare of our schooling children,” said Saratok MP Tan Sri William Mawan Ikom.

He was speaking during a School Uniform Assistance Voucher presentation ceremony, organised under the Sarawak Foundation Education Assistance Programme at Rumah Dayak Saratok recently.

Mawan applauded the role played by Sarawak Foundation.

“The state government will not neglect the educational development of our children. Because he realises the importance of education, our Chief Minister ( Datuk Amar Abang Johari Tun Openg) created an education portfolio under Dato Sri Michael Manyin Jawong.”

However, he noted whatever programmes the government introduces will not find success without the commitment of the

The state government will not neglect the educational development of our children. Because he realises the importance of education, our Chief Minister (Datuk Amar Abang Johari Tun Openg) created an education portfolio under Dato Sri Michael Manyin Jawong. Tan Sri William Mawan Ikom, Saratok MP

people.

“In the context of education, it’s not fair if the role and responsibility to developing human capital or talent rests solely on the shoulders of the teacher and school,” said Mawan, adding that the scope has widened to involve the parents, community and the student themselves.

Mawan also pointed out that just because a child is not academicallyinclined, it does not mean they will have a bleak future or will not be able to find work.

“They could have skills. Identify their talent and develop it. Their talents could very well be their skills. Some may excel in sports and others in arts or crafts. Encourage them.”

He noted that there are many skill training institutes in Sarawak, both private and government, with various types of training available, including Centre For Technical Excellence Sarawak ( Centexs), or Sekolah Seni for those who are interested in the arts.

“There is no reason why our children cannot succeed. There is always an opportunity somewhere given by the state government.”

Also present at the event was Sarawak Foundation programme and assistance assistant director Hajijah Morshidi.

A total of 954 students in Saratok received vouchers worth RM200 each to buy school uniforms.