By Christopher Lidom & Karen Bong
KUCHING, Oct 21: The Sarawak government is committed to training Sarawakians as teachers to address the shortage of educators in the state, according to Premier Datuk Patinggi Tan Sri Abang Johari Tun Openg.
Abang Johari admitted that currently, Sarawak needs about 3,000 teachers to fill the vacancies in State.
“We are currently still negotiating with the Ministry of Education (MoE) for colleges and universities in Sarawak to provide teaching courses to increase the number of teachers in Sarawak,” he said during Lan Berambeh Anak Sarawak 2023 Townhall session held at Malaysia International Trade and Exhibition Centre streamed live via Sarawak Public Communication Unit (Ukas) Facebook page today.
He said Swinburne University of Sarawak will also provide the teaching and training courses for teachers that is recognised by MoE.
“This means, right now, we are working with MoE to train teachers to accommodate these 3,000 vacant teacher positions. It is an ongoing process now,” he added.
In addition, Abang Johari highlighted that the Sarawak government has allocated RM2 billion for education in the state, with the funds aimed at enhancing the standards and facilities of primary and secondary schools.
“Deputy Prime Minister Dato Seri Fadillah Yusof, who is also the chairman of the Malaysia Agreement 1963 (MA63) Technical Committee, will be with us to upgrade the schools in Sarawak, be it in the rural or urban areas.
“That is why under MA63, we want the autonomy of power on education to expedite the development of school for Sarawakian children. Now that it is in process, hopefully it will become a success,” he said. — DayakDaily
