WHILE in the midst of covering the meeting Minister of Education Shaik Baksh had with head teachers from Regions 5 and 6 in Berbice on Friday, I observed something which was most disturbing, especially as it relates to freedom of the press in Guyana. A Communications Officer attached to the Ministry of Education present during the meeting and discussions, instructed all the media present to not include what was being discussed during the plenary session of the meeting. The plenary session was the final session in which head teachers shared concerns and comments with the members of the head table. Solutions had to be come up with and recommendations made as well during this session.
Lo and behold, this individual went to each media house represented and asked that we cease coverage. Knowing my rights as a journalist, I told the individual that the only person I take orders how to do my work is my boss; and that he should not be telling me how to do my job. Apparently dissatisfied with the response he received, he went directly to the head table and had a brief discussion with the officials there, and was probably telling them that some media houses were still videotaping and recording the plenary session. Apparently, too, the officials ignored him, and rightly so.
But my point is, here was an individual who felt he wanted to control the press in performing their duties. Here was a person who wanted to deprive the head teachers and officials present of airing their views rationally and professionally so that the members of the public can know what struggles are facing them and the solutions recommended by the officers within the Ministry of Education. And the plenary session was very important as it was indeed helpful to teachers present. So many issues were aired and the Honourable Minister dealt with them so professionally.
I did not listen to this person. I continued covering the meeting, even during the plenary segment. I have no apologies to make. I am telling about this experience so that these examples of ignorance must not be ever repeated.