Is the problem really GSAT?

I don't get it! Is it the GSAT examination that is responsible for the great divide, or the placement system? I believe the problem lies not with either of the aforementioned, but with our collective failure to motivate and educate all our youngsters.

We need a major paradigm shift in our cultural practices and outlook on life before we can attempt any real problem-solving and 'house-cleaning'. Believe me, it is a possible task but whether we have that collective will to change our educational landscape is quite another matter. We do a whole lot better at bashing the 'system' and lip service.

- Janette Clarke

clarkejanette@hotmail.com

Stony Hill

Jamaica was once a place where young boys and girls could look to the elderly for positive guidance. They showed love and compassion and were mother or father, grandmother or grandfather to everyone in the community. But today, we have become selfish and cold to the feelings of others.

Our young men today no longer respect the value of hard work. Education is sidetracked with "how I look in the mirror" values . Everybody now is about bleaching their faces, dyeing their hair, wearing tight pants and having a trailer load of girls. But, at such a time, can our men continue to sleep on sidewalks? Can they afford to neglect getting a good education instead of reclining in prison cells and kneading their palms?

Young men and young women need to get up and build a positive Jamaica - one of hard work and creativity ... not a culture of begging for fish and bread.

- Howard Roberts

raggae_2006@yahoo.com

Christiana

Regarding the reference to Rev Msgr Wallace Harris in your recent articles about men of the cloth who have fallen from grace, please note that Msgr Harris has been merely accused of the actions, there has been no finding of wrongdoing. It is the Roman Catholic Church's policy (one many Catholics don't agree with) to remove any priest who has been accused of anything.

Please do not assume that church policy is any indication of guilt, and please do not include this good man in this gallery.

- Ron Riddick

rctr1958@yahoo.com