By Karen Bong
KUCHING, May 10: A World Bank Report has revealed that Malaysian children are not receiving adequate education in schools as despite spending an average of 12.5 years in school, students only achieve the equivalent of 8.9 years of learning.
This stark comparison was underscored by Lingga assemblywoman Dayang Noorazah Awang Sohor, who pointed out that Vietnam, despite spending less on education than Malaysia, offers its students 12.9 years of schooling for 10.7 years of learning.
“In neighbouring Singapore, the average child spends 13.9 years in school and learns the equivalent of 12.8 years.
“As such, there is a necessity for educators to be provided with opportunities to enhance the quality of teaching,” she said when debating the TYT Address in the august House today.
Dayang Noorazah proposed that teachers and educators intending to pursue further studies, from Diplomas to PhDs, be offered scholarships throughout their academic journey, especially in Sarawak.
“This initiative would encourage and incentivise teachers and educators to continually expand their knowledge and skills in accordance with evolving technology and educational practices, thus improving learning outcomes for children,” she added.
Furthermore, Dayang Noorazah urged the Sarawak government to establish a Sarawak-owned Primary School Achievement Test (UPSR) under the purview of the Ministry of Education, Innovation, and Talent Development to elevate the quality of education, particularly for Sarawakian children.
Acknowledging the emphasis placed by the Premier of Sarawak Datuk Patinggi Tan Sri Abang Johari Tun Openg on human capital development, she stressed that the abundance of natural resources alone does not guarantee success.
“Take, for example, countries like Singapore and Japan, which are capable of transforming into a major economy due to their strength in skilled human resources even though they do not have natural resources.
“Skilled human capital and a comprehensive education system are paramount for Sarawak’s ambition to become an advanced region with high income by 2030,” she emphasised. — DayakDaily
