We note with approval the public invitation by the National Council for Education (NCE) for people to serve on the boards of governors of more than 160 schools in the parishes of St Elizabeth, Manchester and Clarendon.

Up to now, recommendations for service on these boards have come mostly from the member of Parliament, acting often on the advice of the local-government councillor for the division within which the school is located. Of course, some recommendations do reach the education ministry other than via political representatives, especially for schools that are affiliated to, or supported by, institutions such as churches.

This system of referral has worked reasonably well. People, by and large, have been found to take on the not-easy task of overseeing the management of our schools. And they usually work hard and selflessly.

Best available talent

We do not believe, however, that the system allows for recruitment of the largest pool of the best-available talent and holds teachers accountable. There are two main reasons for this.First, it is the visibly active persons of the community, and not necessarily the most talented individuals, who tend to be tapped for service. Moreover, on this scenario, the 'recruiters' usually operate with a limited pool of talent. The same individuals tend to be recycled from one community institution to the next.

Second, it is unfortunately so, but fact nonetheless, that a substantial segment of the Jamaican society is deeply suspicious of politicians and politically related or influenced institutions. This attitude holds them back from community involvement, however tangential may be the political connection.

It is understandable, therefore, that many qualified and talented persons disqualify themselves from service on school boards because they feel, somehow, that they would owe their appointments to politicians.

This public invitation by the NCE removes such perceived constraints. People can feel that any participation would be on their terms, with no partisan considerations. Hopefully, this initiative will unearth a broad swathe of talent for the school boards and prove a success worthy of emulation across the island.

Suggested amendment

We, however, would suggest one amendment to the list of criteria published by the NCE. We understand and appreciate fully the the council's stipulation that persons wanting to serve on school boards should have attained "at least a secondary education". We would hope that our most educated persons serve on school boards. We also want the best minds. We do not believe that the absence of formal education should in all cases disqualify a person. It makes no concession for individuals who are talented, have obvious skills, understand the value of education, and are willing to work hard to bring to others opportunities they themselves may have missed or squandered, and are deeply committed to nation-building.

We would prefer to have a person with limited formal education, but in possession of the other desired attributes than a foppish intellectual who believes that this removes the need for hard work and effort.

In any event, the NCE will have the opportunity to interview and screen potential selectees before they are appointed.

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