Performance-based pay will certainly be an excellent proposal in order to improve the performance of teachers, students and schools. However, in this climate where corruption is rampant, I have many doubts concerning a successful process. There are many hypocritical arguments going around in all quarters regarding the topic, but some of these very proponents are the same ones who will try to corrupt the process as well as deprive their own staff of a fair assessment or evaluation.

Hardworking teachers

At present, there are many highly qualified, competent, dedicated and hardworking teachers who are not being recognised or promoted, whether it is to the position of principal, vice-principal, master teacher or post of special responsibilities. This might be due to the fact that such teachers are not a part of the cronyism, church or political bandwagons. I must advise the minister of education to conduct an independent survey in the schools before any move towards performance-based pay is implemented.

Mr Minister, performance-based pay will work when corruption is dead and gone.

I am, etc.,

Beverly P. Lambert

Newport PO, Manchester