Upgrading Tamil National-Type Schools to Attract More Students
The Foundation for the Development of Tamil Schools in Malaysia has called for special funding to upgrade the facilities of Tamil National-Type Schools (SJKT), aiming to make them more appealing to parents and on par with national schools. The proposal comes as a response to concerns over the declining enrollment of students in SJKT schools across the country.
Enhancing Education Quality and Facilities
According to Datuk T. Murugiah, president of the foundation, more funding is required to enhance the quality of education in SJKT schools. He emphasized the need to improve teacher salaries, school development, and access to modern learning technology. "The Ministry of Education should introduce policies that provide more advantages to Tamil schools, including expanding access to rural areas," he said in a statement.
Flexible Curriculum to Stay Competitive
Murugiah also urged the introduction of a more flexible SJKT school curriculum that strengthens proficiency in Malay and English, alongside Tamil, to ensure students remain competitive in the mainstream education system. "As a former Deputy Minister, I urge all parties, especially the Indian community itself, to take immediate action to ensure Tamil schools remain relevant and the preferred choice for parents," he said.
Education as the Foundation of Community Development
Murugiah emphasized that education is the foundation of community development and cautioned that SJKT schools must not lose their place in the national education system. He stressed that education is crucial for the development of the Tamil community and the country as a whole.
Declining Enrollment and the Future of Tamil Education
Murugiah expressed concern over the declining enrollment of students in SJKT schools across the country, warning that if this issue is not addressed immediately, it could weaken the Tamil education system and lead to a decline in the use of the Tamil language in Malaysia. He stressed that immediate action is needed to address this issue and ensure the long-term sustainability of SJKT schools.
FAQs
- What is the Foundation for the Development of Tamil Schools in Malaysia proposing?
The foundation is proposing that the government allocate special funds to upgrade the facilities of Tamil National-Type Schools (SJKT), enhancing their appeal to parents and bringing them on par with national schools. - What are the key areas that require improvement in SJKT schools?
According to Datuk T. Murugiah, teacher salaries, school development, and access to modern learning technology are key areas that require improvement. - How does the flexible curriculum proposal benefit students and the Tamil education system?
A flexible curriculum that strengthens proficiency in Malay and English, alongside Tamil, will help students remain competitive in the mainstream education system, ensuring the long-term sustainability of the Tamil education system. - What is the potential impact of declining enrollment on the Tamil education system?
If left unaddressed, declining enrollment could weaken the Tamil education system and lead to a decline in the use of the Tamil language in Malaysia.