KUCHING: Sarawak Bumiputera Teachers Union (KGBS) welcomes the placement of 1,108 new teachers in schools across Sarawak.
Though it stressed that this number does not fully address the persistent shortage of teachers in the state, KGBS expressed confidence that these placements would, to some extent, help alleviate the existing shortage in various schools.
“KGBS still hopes that the remaining shortage will be filled by the new session of 2024/2025. The shortage of teachers here has been a critical issue lately due to the number of reasons.
“We welcome the placement of the new teachers but we also hope that their selection and placement are appropriate to the schools,” it said in a statement today.
However, KGBS raised concerns about the adequacy of the selection and placement of new teachers in accordance with the needs of schools.
They cited instances in the past where teacher placements did not meet the specific requirements of certain schools, stressing that such mismatches could negatively impact schools.
“The State Education Department (JPN) should be more aware of the option requirements for schools while making placements to avoid disruptions in the teaching-learning process.”
Despite these concerns, KGBS expressed hope that the newly placed teachers would dedicate themselves diligently to their duties.
“New teachers should be more aware of the environment and social relations with the local community. Serve with dedication and trust. Avoid causing issues that can affect the teacher’s profession.
“Most of all, the new teachers should be a member of the teacher union. KGBS welcomes them to become new members.
“Your welfare as an educator will be better taken care of when you become a member of the union,” it said.
