Teacher absenteeism a damper on children’s zeal

 AS a parent whose children attend an elementary school in Port Moresby, I support the call by the PNG Teaching Services Commission about teacher absenteeism. This is becoming a demoralising factor for many young students in the capital. 

It has resulted in my children missing classes for a good part of this year. 

Children at the elementary age are so enthusiastic about going to school to discover their own abilities, but absent teachers kill that excitement.

Eventually, the students lose faith in their teachers and the school. 

My children used to wake up as early as 5.30am to get ready for school, but that enthusiasm has waned as getting to school is no longer as interesting as it used to be since they are sent home by 10am when their treachers are absent. 

If the education authorities are investigating this, just talk to parents who will give you a good account of absenteeism among teachers.  

Lahui Gamoga

Port Moresby