Dear Editor,

Dubbed the escape out of poverty, and the key to a better life, much importance is placed on the book and pen. From learning the pronunciation of the letter ‘A’ to writing a doctoral thesis the value of education cannot be overstated.

The present Government has been putting great emphasis on education by creating opportunities for young people to benefit from. There is Citizen Security and Justice Programme (CSJP); Career Advancement Program (CAP); National Service Corps (NSC) programme; Housing, Opportunity, Production and Employment (HOPE) Initiative; and others giving the opportunity to learn and earn. The Government also offers grants as well as full and part scholarships toward studying at tertiary institutions.

Gone are the days when there were only two options. The pool of accredited tertiary institutions has rapidly increased and they span the length and breadth of The Rock.

Many Jamaicans are making use of the opportunities. More and more households are experiencing the success of relatives acquiring degrees, which seemed a scarcity in yesteryear.

While education should not be politicised, it is good that the Opposition is catching the education fever. Opposition Leader Dr Peter Phillips, at his party’s 80th anniversary celebration, made the pronouncement that his Administration proposes to offer full scholarships to the first child of every Jamaican family to pursue tertiary education. Looks like education is winning right now.

Hezekan Bolton

h_e_z_e@yahoo.com