TTUTA CONDEMNS DIVISIVE STATEMENTS BY CUDJOE AND MAHARAJ

The Trinidad and Tobago Unified Teachers' Association (TTUTA) strongly condemns the reported attacks by Dr. Selwyn Cudjoe on the unquestionable professionalism of our teachers and in particular that of Indo-Trinidadian teachers.

TTUTA also condemns the reported responses by Mr. Sat Maharaj which in attempting to defend the record of Indo-Trinidadian teachers implied that Afro-Trinidadian teachers and in particular Tobago Teachers were lacking in diligence and professionalism.

TTUTA rejects any flawed, distorted analysis which seeks to lay the blame for the perceived under-performance of students solely on teachers and which ignores the complex nature of education. Student performance hinges on many factors including various social, economic, family and societal ones.

In the absence of detailed research, it is foolhardy and even mischievous simply to attach blame to teachers.

There is no evidence to suggest that teachers in Trinidad and Tobago, regardless of ethnic background, discriminate against students on the basis of ethnicity. As well, there is no evidence to suggest that the education system as a whole institutionalizes different treatment of the diverse groups in our society. The vast majority of our teachers are hardworking, committed professionals who strive to provide the best learning environment for our children despite often limited resources and conditions which are not always ideal.

TTUTA will not stand idly by and allow our teachers to be the victims of sloppy analysis or be used as part of the dangerous, irresponsible agenda of divisive elements in the society.

TTUTA proudly and confidently stands up for the integrity and professionalism of the teachers of Trinidad and Tobago. We call on our teachers to stand together in unity and solidarity and resist any attempts to divide this sacred profession.

November 2003