THE EDITOR: As the new school year approaches, I write to express my deep concern and frustration regarding the failure of the Ministry of Education to address teacher-leave applications. As a principal deeply committed to the welfare and growth of our schools, it is disheartening to witness the detrimental impact of this failure on both teachers and the overall functioning of our school system.

A key pillar of any functional public institution is the timely and efficient response to the needs and concerns of the people it serves. Unfortunately, the Ministry of Education's recent performance in this regard receives a failing grade. Teachers who have responsibly submitted applications for leave, within the stipulated timelines, find themselves in a state of turmoil due to the deafening silence from the Ministry of Education.

As school principals, we are confronted with the difficult task of managing our teaching staff and allocating resources effectively. This becomes an uphill battle when faced with the Ministry of Education's inaction.

This failure to act has far-reaching consequences, affecting teachers across the board, and contributing to a system-wide breakdown of overall morale. Teachers who intend to embark on academic pursuits or fulfill personal commitments are left in uncertainty as their future plans are in limbo due to the absence of an official response.

Numerous attempts to rectify this situation have been met with frustration. Despite repeated enquiries to the ministry for updates and resolution, no courtesy of a response has been extended. This lack of communication and accountability only exacerbates the frustration and anxiety experienced by our teachers and administrative staff.

In light of these circumstances, I urge the Minister of Education to take swift action and address this issue with the urgency it warrants. Such a state of affairs would be unacceptable in the private sector, and it is disconcerting to see our dedicated educators in the public sector treated in such a manner.

Our education system thrives on the commitment and hard work of its teachers, and it is essential that their legitimate requests for leave are treated with the respect and timeliness they deserve. A functional and responsive Ministry of Education is crucial to the sustained growth of our nation's education sector.

I remain hopeful that the minister will recognise the gravity of this situation and initiate the necessary steps to rectify it.

A SMITH

via e-mail

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