Allow existing bus system at some rural schools to continue - Malabver

 

Incoming President of the Jamaica Teachers' Association (JTA), Mark Malabver, is urging the Ministry of Education not to discontinue existing bus systems in place at some rural schools.

 

In many instances, schools have been providing transportation for some students in rural Jamaica with support from the ministry.

 

Mr. Malabver says while he supports the government's proposed rural school bus system, it should work in tandem with already established systems.

 

"The rural bus system - it's unfortunate that it has become somewhat politicised, but it is the silly season now. There has been discussion I know in the ministry to defund schools. I know it's not, perhaps, the right choice of words, but to defund the bus system.

 

"I am asking that before you take that approach, you have dialogue with the principals to understand what is happening on the ground and then tailor your response along that line. Because the bus system in many instances is helping a lot of our students to get to the institutions, and as it is now, the JUTC will not be able to respond come September to take those students from out of the rural communities, down to their schools," he contended.

 

Mr. Malabver was speaking Tuesday at the Ministry of Education's regional retreat for Region 2 principals and vice principals, in St. James.

 

Portfolio Minister Dr. Dana Morris Dixon, who was in attendance, said the ministry will continue to provide support to fund bus programmes administered by schools until the government can fully cover transportation for all rural routes.