The Singapore model

This refers to the article, ‘The highs and lows of higher education’ (June 1) by Dr Atta-ur-Rehman. The writer has suggested A-Level as minimum qualification to become a teacher in Pakistan as is followed in Singapore. He has turned his eyes away from some bitter realities in the country.

How many students appear in O and A-level examinations? Their percentage will be in a fraction. Children belong to the elite class go for A-level education and teaching is not their priority. If we take a bird’s eye view of teachers in our country at all levels, they belong to the middle class. We need to first increase the number of students and teachers in our schools. According to a recent report, there are 25.2 million children between the ages of 5 and 16, who do not go to school. There are schools in villages that lack proper buildings. We should ensure basic facilities before applying the Singapore model.

Ali Raza

Hujra Shah Muqeem