BETONG: The quota system should be replaced by a requirement based system to address the shortage of teachers in Sarawak.
Non-governmental organisations (NGO) in the state have asked the Sarawak Teachers Union (STU) and the Sarawak Bumiputera Teachers Union (KGBS) to take this up with the Education Services Commission (SPP) and the Ministry of Education (MoE).
Spaoh Khairat Islam Trust Board Chairman Dr Abang Ismail Abang Julhi, stressed that the quota system previously practiced by SPP was less effective in overcoming the issue of teacher shortage in Sarawak.
“Recently, there was a heated debate about the failure of 202 teacher candidates from Sarawak in the recruitment of education service officers grade DG41 which was said to be due to the limited quota by SPP.
“Hence, I recommend that STU and KGBS ask the commission to explain the situation as well as defend the fate of 202 contract service teachers to be placed in schools throughout Sarawak.
“At the same time, the Sarawak Ministry of Education, Innovation and Talent Development is also expected to help hold negotiations with the MoE,” said Abang Ismail when contacted by Suara Sarawak/New Sarawak Tribune, yesterday (June 19).
“Through discussion, we can ask them to review their decision in introducing the quota system, and then replace it with a requirements system that I think will be welcomed by the teachers.”
He explained that the frustration of the 202 teachers can only be solved if they are given the opportunity to fill vacancies in schools, especially in rural areas which are currently experiencing a shortage of teachers.
“For me, we have to appreciate the contribution of these teachers in helping to elevate the country’s education system.
“This is because some of them have already served for about a year or two as interim teachers, teaching various subjects.
“However, as a result of the quota system, it has prevented them from continuing their service as educators,” he said.
On the shortage of teachers in Sarawak, Abang Ismail stated the demand for more teachers, especially in rural parts on the region, is justified.
According to him, scattered schools coupled with geographical factors, cause the locations of schools to be quite far apart.
“Some schools are far from the urban areas and can only be connected by air transport, logging roads as well as rivers.
“When the situation is like that, it certainly needs a competent teacher to serve.
“So, if this issue continues without a solution, rural and inland schools will be further affected,” he added.
