00:00The Association of Denominational Boards of Education says enough is enough.
00:06After months of requesting a meeting with Education Minister Dr. Michael Dowlaff,
00:11the association says no formal engagement has taken place as yet, despite several proposed dates.
00:19The association represents 23 denominational boards across Trinidad and Tobago
00:24and manages nearly one-third of the nation's secondary schools and more than 300 primary schools.
00:32In a strongly worded statement issued today, the association questioned why key decisions affecting schools
00:38continue to be announced without consultation with the denominational boards.
00:43Among the issues highlighted was the recent introduction of AI textbooks
00:48and the transfer of maintenance responsibilities from schools to the Ministry of Public Utilities.
00:54But the association says those concerns are only part of a wider list of issues affecting the education system.
01:02They are now calling for urgent discussions on staff shortages, acting appointments, shortages of furniture,
01:08delays in grant disbursements, school indiscipline and support for students with special needs.
01:15The role and placement of business operations assistants, commonly known as BOAs,
01:20are also among the matters the association says requires immediate action.
01:25According to them, communication between the ministry and denominational boards has deteriorated,
01:31particularly as new administrative and policy changes continue to impact schools.
01:37They argue that denominational boards remain a critical partner in the delivery of education
01:43and says meaningful consultation is necessary to ensure decisions are informed, inclusive and in the best interest of students.
01:52Despite the concerns raised, the association says it remains committed to working collaboratively
01:58with the ministry and other stakeholders to strengthen the nation's education system.
02:04I wish you to worry, Rooknerine, TV6 News.
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