In the build-up towards World Teachers’ Day, on October 5 next Tuesday, students are reminded to respect their teachers and learn to be humble when corrected.
Students with attitude problems need to change for they have not even earned a single penny as they are still very much dependent on their parents for their livelihood.
A report by a daily newspaper today on case of a Labasa student alleging that his teacher punched him brings to light how a student can manipulate the media for his good name.
Reports received from the school revealed the following:
1. His teacher used the boy’s red ball pen for marking exercise books, while students were asked to revise and prepare for the exams
2. After marking the papers, the teacher, in returning the pen, threw it back to the student but it fell short
3. the student swore at the teacher when the pen didn’t reach him
4. when the teacher interrogated him on why he swore, he punched the teacher in the groin
5. this is when the teacher retaliated in self-defense and punched the boy
The Ministry had also received reports confirming the above incident from teachers and students.
Now that this is with the police, the Education Ministry will leave it to the law to decide on the case.
Parents are reminded to conduct regular meetings with their children and teach them how to behave in the presence of elders and teachers.
Even though students know their rights, they must be told that these rights come with responsibilities. And they must not use their rights to destabilize the school’s programs and regulations.
It is time that we teach our students the right way!!
Filipe Bole
Minister for Education, National Heritage, Culture and Arts, Labour & Industrial Relations & Employment