Dear Editor,

THE Tagore Memorial Secondary School is an educational institution of distinction and dynamism. It is just one of the organizations that I attended, but it is a school which had a tremendous influence on my growth and development, even at such a tender age.

The school itself is named after a great poet and internationally recognized philosopher, one who conceptualized wisdom and the greatness of this school. Past students, both young and old, can be found worldwide in all spheres of employment — business, science, agriculture, politics, entertainment or trade.

The school has produced a plethora of well-equipped men and women engaged in all sectors of life. As such, it came as a grave surprise and disappointment to learn of the teacher who is involved in the distribution of drugs to students of the school. It was a further disappointment to learn that he is still teaching at this fine institution.

It was, moreover, incontrovertibly disappointing to discover the weak stance of the Government in dealing with him and persons of his ilk. It is my view that persons who sexually, emotionally, physically, or verbally abuse our children should have their names and pictures published on a website so that the general public can know who to be on the lookout for; and they should be labelled personae non gratae (unwelcome persons).

After being prosecuted by the law, they should have to seek permission from the authorities and citizenry in any area in order to set up housing and seek jobs and health care.

The ferocity of my feelings on this matter may not be adequately expressed in this letter, but I must remind the public of the landmark establishment that is the Tagore Memorial High School. It is my alma mater.

I recall attending extra lessons on Saturdays and Sundays for free, and this was done despite the low–paying salaries at that time. Teachers were highly motivated for the success of their students, and were well respected in those days. They would even encourage students to visit their homes for corrections and further reading materials.

Today, teachers are abusing our females and corrupting the minds of our males. We must come to a place of care for our young people, in whom we should instill positive values without impeding compulsory learning and education methods.

I call on Government to investigate this ongoing matter at the Tagore institution. The persons who are afraid to speak out and those who may be afraid of job loss and victimization must remember that they are the framers and protectors of our children. The Tagore Memorial High School and any other educational institution must be cleansed of unsavoury characters.

HAJJI ROSHAN KHAN
National Chairman of UPF- Guyana