Teacher absenteeism

Education Minister Moves to Tackle Teacher Absenteeism

Education Minister Sonia Parag has sounded a sharp warning against what she described as alarming levels of teacher absenteeism across the country’s schools, stressing that students are being left behind and robbed of the education they deserve.

The Minister said that since the reopening of the new school term, she has been making unannounced visits to classrooms. What she found, she explained, was deeply troubling. At one school alone, 12 teachers have not shown up since the start of the term. In another case, she walked into a classroom where children were asleep at their desks, waiting for a teacher who never arrived.

“This cannot continue,” Parag declared in an interview on Monday. “If you don’t have teachers in the classroom teaching, then the child doesn’t learn. It’s as simple as that.”

She made it clear that accountability must extend beyond just being physically present in the classroom. Teachers, she said, must also be held responsible for the quality of lessons delivered and whether those lessons make a real impact on students’ learning.

The Minister underscored the vital role of educators, describing teaching as “possibly the most important role in our nation.” She urged teachers to recognise the weight of their responsibility.

“You are moulding the minds of young children into adulthood. I am asking teachers to show up for their children, not just because it’s your job, but because it is one of the most important things you will ever do in your life,” she appealed.

At the same time, Parag pledged that her ministry will back teachers who are committed to their duty. She said support systems will be strengthened to help educators deliver effectively in classrooms.

“I will give you all of my support to be able to build and develop the education sector in Guyana,” the Minister assured.

With absenteeism now under the spotlight, Parag stressed that corrective action will follow, as the government pushes forward with its education agenda aimed at ensuring every child has access to consistent, quality teaching.