I wish to alert the Ministry of Education on the wanton wastage of our money that is being pumped into the Maracas Presbyterian Primary School. The total population of that school is between 40 and 50 students of which 40 per cent do not regularly attend. Most classes have few children registered.
Given the current salaries paid to teachers and principals, I estimate that at least $1.2 million dollars is being spent annual on wages, and this does not include janitors, security and Cepep employees attached to that school, as well as the repairs, maintenance and utilities, etc.
I strongly recommend that the Ministry consider turning that institution into an Early Childhood Education centre and transfer the students to neighbouring schools. This will be most welcomed by the entire area of Maracas/St Joseph. Those teachers must be highly demotivated in preparing themselves to teach classes and only a handful of students come to school. I do hope that the relevant authorities take note of this and do what is right for the students and teachers, the community and by extension, our country.
Andrew Warner
Acono Road