TSC worried about teachers’ shortages in hinterland regions

Oct 05, 2012 News

A shortage of teachers currently exists in a number of hinterland regions but the void can only be filled by requests from Regional Education Officers (REDO).
This disclosure was made by Chairperson of the Teaching Service Commission (TSC), Leila Ramson, in a statement to mark World Teachers’ Day which is being observed the world over today.
She revealed that despite moves by the TSC to promote a number of teachers throughout the country, coupled with the fact that a number of junior teachers were appointed this year, there yet exists a number of teaching vacancies in the hinterland regions.
According to Ramson, the TSC relies on the REDOs to make recommendations to fill these vacancies. Junior vacancies, she explained, are filled when the REDO from the Regions sends a list to the TSC, through the Chief Education Officer (CEO), identifying each and every vacancy for the schools in their respective region.
Apart from appointing and promoting teachers, the TSC is also responsible for disciplinary action in the teaching profession. According to Ramson, sexual offences, pornography along with the age-old issues of lateness and absenteeism warrant zero tolerance from the TSC.
However, complaints of teachers must first be sent to the TSC through the Chief Education Officer who will make specific recommendations. The body is then expected to conduct its own investigations after receiving reports from the respective regions.

TSC Chairperson, Leila Ramson

She pointed out that while some complaints can be resolved at the school level, the more serious offences are dealt with by the TSC’s Disciplinary Committee.
Ramson also expressed concern over the exposure of young students to the negative effects of technology and other global influences, adding that “our teachers have a more difficult task and a greater responsibility”.
She insisted that the profession of teaching is a noble service to the nation and humanity.
On World Teachers’ Day, which is observed annually, Ramson said that the TSC “…uses this global event as an opportunity to express its sincere appreciation and best wishes to all our Teachers in Guyana”.
“Teachers, you are the backbone of all development in our country, builders of our nation and not only touch lives but nurture them also. Responsible, dedicated and committed teachers are invaluable assets to our society,” she added.
She stressed the need for shared responsibilities and commitment on the part of all students, parents and educators to ensure that every child in every school receives the best education possible to enable them to compete for rewarding and productive jobs in the Global Economy.
The TSC, according to her, continues to collaborate with all stakeholders in the fulfilment of its mandate. “Teachers, thank you for the sacrifice and for making the hard things easy. You are the guiding force behind our students, children and nation. We at TSC recognise, salute and honour all our teachers on World Teachers’ Day.”