GEORGE TOWN – The National Union of the Teaching Profession (NUTP) Penang branch has called on corporate bodies and telecommunications operators to emulate YTL Communications Sdn Bhd, which has supported poor students who are struggling with online learning.
In a statement today, Penang NUTP acting chairman Mohd Zaidi Mohd Said urged more private sector firms to channel aid by providing gadgets and 120GB free data for a year to students from low-income families.
NUTP estimates that a high number of low- to middle-income families still do not have proper online learning materials, such as laptops or tablets.
“As more and more schools close due to the pandemic, a reversion to online learning is inevitable,” said Zaidi.
“Corporates can help these families and their children have proper gadgets and Internet access to smoothen the online learning experience.”
More than 20 schools have been ordered shut in Penang since Monday, as the state grapples with Covid-19 cases in classes due to the asymptomatic nature of the virus among young carriers.
“Teachers prefer face-to-face education modules rather than online learning, as the latter does not permit them to impart knowledge effectively,” said Zaidi.
“However, due to the new normal, they are willing to adjust.
“There is no other choice, but we need the cooperation of the authorities and parents.”
Zaidi said TV Pendidikan channels are a good alternative for students without e-learning gadgets.
Earlier this week, it was announced that all primary and secondary schools nationwide will return to e-learning classes when schools reopen after the Hari Raya Aidilfitri holidays on May 13 and 14.
About 2.7 million schoolchildren will have to revert to online teaching and learning sessions for a few weeks.
The directive will also affect 170,000 students from daily boarding schools, and some 100,000 students from full boarding schools, who will be allowed to return home for the festive period. – The Vibes, May 1, 2021
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