Education system designed to create elites

It’s difficult to implement change in the education system of TT and the region because the decision makers are beneficiaries of the present system.

They blame the individual for their inability to progress in the current system. Teachers are also blamed for students’ poor performance. The system is doing what it is designed to do — create a ruling elite and a majority servile class.

The ruling class thinks there is nothing wrong with the system but that there are lazy people who cause trouble to the society.

When I used to mark the Caribbean Secondary Examination Certificate I tried to convince some higher-ups that the examinations needed reform but was unsuccessful. Since that is the examining body for the region it is integral to educational reform. Teachers teach students to pass the test and the test is designed to discriminate.

A plan must be developed and implemented to change TT’s education system. It cannot just be superficial like teacher training and remedial classes for students.

The system must aim at developing students’ abilities.

The present system aims to select the better students which is inherent discrimination. I contend it is an unjust system. No justice, no peace.

BRIAN PLUMMER via email