Ministry to expand textbook programme

Education Minister Hazel Manning yesterday announced that Cabinet has approved plans to expand the textbook programme. At the post-Cabinet briefing, Manning said the move came as a result of complaints from parents and teachers about the limitations contained in the present initiative. The expansion would be implemented for the 2005/2006 academic year. The new programme would include a $1,000 book grant for Lower Six students, an expansion of the rental textbook programme for Form Four students, and it would enable Form Five students to use Form Four textbooks.

For primary school students, the ministry would provide additional textbooks for Social Studies and Science, as well as workbooks for certain subjects. Concerning the gang problems at the Marabella Senior Comprehensive School, Manning reported that school supervisors are conducting research and reporting on the matter. She said the problem stems from the school’s location. The ministry is also looking into the matter. Manning also said that the Providence Girls’ teacher accused of sexually harassing students has been suspended by the Teaching Service Commission pending the outcome of the investigation into the allegations.