KOTA KINABALU – School lessons should be recorded and broadcast on television and radio as not all students have laptops, said Sabah DAP Wanita chief Jannie Lasimbang.
In a statement today, she said this will greatly aid parents who cannot afford to buy these gadgets, which are a must-have now that classes are held online due to movement curbs imposed to stem Covid-19.
According to Sabah Education Department data, some 52% of students in the state do not have smart devices and internet access.
“Online classes for primary and secondary school students nationwide started on January 20, but many parents and students were unprepared,” said Jannie.
“Parents with several children have complained to me about being stressed out trying to find money to buy a laptop for each child, as their classes are held simultaneously.
“They are also unable to help their children access learning platforms as they lack the knowledge to do so, and the instructions given to them were insufficient.”
The Kapayan rep added that the Higher Education Ministry should consider standardising its policy on class attendance for tertiary students, saying some universities have called for students to be physically present.
“Last year, many Sabahan students studying in Peninsular Malaysia wasted money travelling back to their institutions, only to be told that classes would be conducted online.”
She said students worried about facing examinations given these hurdles have started the #SuaraPelajar movement, where they voice out their frustrations and concerns on health, education and other matters impacted by the pandemic.
“Students are depressed about the exams they will face, as they feel like they have not had enough classes. And, the rising number of (Covid-19) cases daily is also causing mental health problems.
“Many feel it is unfair if the Education Ministry keeps to the exam schedule without reviewing all concerns about the matter.”
There must be a flexible solution, especially for students in rural Sabah who lack internet access, she said. – The Vibes, January 22, 2021
