KUCHING: The licensing of teachers will definitely enhance professionalism in teaching, said Datin Fatimah Abdullah yesterday.

The Minister in the Chief Minister’s Department said the proposal was a good move because professionalism is an essential element in teaching as this would determine the nation’s future generations.

“This is a good move to ensure not only trained teachers are allowed to teach. At the same time, it would encourage those who have passion in teaching to apply for the license. This kind of people normally are very committed, they are willing to sacrifice their own money and time to get a license. They really, really want to be teachers,” she said.

She explained to reporters after the opening of the Sarawak Early Childhood Educationists’ Association (3PAKS) first annual general meeting (AGM) that teaching licenses are common practice in many developed countries.

“Teachers with proper training have the advantages in many aspects because they have been equipped with relevant knowledge and skills. This is crucial because teachers are dealing with children who need extra guidelines, care and patience,” she said.

Deputy Education Minister Dr Puad Zarkashi said on Friday that the proposed license was an initiative to ensure professionalism in the teaching profession and to avoid bogus teachers or those involved in criminal activities to remain in the profession.

He said since the proposal was only at the initial stage, a detailed study was needed and many factors must be taken into consideration.

Fatimah also said the license would help to reduce the number of temporary teachers in schools.

On whether transvestites (pondan) would make suitable teachers, Fatimah said the authorities should put emphasis on the person’s attitude and aptitude rather than physical outlook.

However, she said such a characteristic was not acceptable in many Asian societies.

“It might be a dilemma situation if he (a pondan) is a good teacher, effective in the classroom, has good relationships with students and responsible. A school principal might have to decide whether to hire him or not because it is still not accepted in our society. I actually feel for them,” she said.

Source: The Borneo Post