Absenteeism growing ‘concern’

TEACHERS’ absenteeism is a growing concern, Morobe education adviser Keith Jiram says.
He said the problem existed throughout the country.
Jiram said the monitoring system was no longer working, although there were school inspectors and district education programme managers based in each district.
“Visiting each school in rural areas is sometimes prohibited by geographical features and availability of logistical backing,” he said.
Jiram said the level of the availability of basic services in some locations, especially in rural areas, were a factor that contributed to teacher absenteeism.
He said road conditions, health services and others factors such as building infrastructures as well as the welfare of teachers also contributed.
“This is really affecting the education system and the children’s learning which goes a long way to affecting the country as a whole.”
Jiram suggested that the Department of Education and the Teaching Service Commission should work with provinces to find possible measures to address the issue.