ST JAMES, Jamaica — Outgoing president of the Jamaica Teachers’ Association (JTA), Winston Smith, has expressed that the reported mass attrition of teachers may result increase challenges for those who remain. Still, he has encouraged them to remain undaunted.

“Let us not be daunted or be discouraged. We understand, appreciate and recognise the magnitude of work that we have to do. Many of our colleagues, it has been reported, have made that switch to greener pastures. But whether the pasture is green, dry, or whatever condition, humans cannot be contained or restrained and has a freedom of movement and a freedom of choice,” Smith said.

Smith was bringing welcome and remarks during the first session of the JTA’s 48th Annual Conference held at the Hilton Rose Hall Resort and Spa on Monday.

The three-day conference is being held under the theme: “Revisiting the Foundation: Building Our Human Capital Through Equitable Educational Opportunities”.

“The reality is that those of us who remain may have a more challenging job. But I believe in you, our educators, my colleagues, that when the battle’s hot, and the conflict soar, then the strength in you will rise like that of Paul Bogle and you will be able to sojourn through the hills and valleys and take on the mammoth task of educating our children,” Smith added.