The Tribune

The COVID-19 pandemic has created the greatest-ever disruption of education systems in world history. It has affected nearly 1.6bn learners in more than 190 countries. Closures of schools and other learning spaces have impacted 94 per cent of the world’s student population, a figure that rises to 99 per cent in developing countries.

The Bahamas is certainly no exception. Tens of thousands of students now confined to home are struggling to adjust to the new normal. The anonymity of classroom instruction with no teacher present; the absence of books and other school supplies; the lack of Internet services; and the lack of peace and quiet in the home, combined with little to no positive reinforcement and encouragement to achieve, has exacerbated a dilemma that will result in years of social struggle.

I have laid the case for a dire trajectory, and a bleak future for the educational health and well-being of our nation, if only to shock us all into the reality that ‘something must be done’. The business community must rise to the occasion in helping fill the gap for thousands of students who are now more disadvantaged than ever before.

Here is how we can rise to the occasion and help resolve this national educational crisis:

1. Provide Internet wireless services for the children of employees and others in the business community. With so many parents struggling to keep food on the table, Internet services - and even electricity - seem a luxury. Arranging with Internet service providers (ISPs) to offer special community rates is a noteworthy gesture during this time.

2. Provide tablets and computers for students. Internet services without instruments are useless. Perhaps this is a good time to donate the used systems to parents struggling without resources.

3. Provide student secured stations and packages. Any remote employee will tell you that of great concern is finding a quiet station to do work. Students are no different. The slightest disruption on the bed, in the front room or in the kitchen causes the child to lose focus.

4. Provide tutoring services in literacy and numeracy. Every little bit helps. Hire a tutor who will help with the basic subjects, and let your employees know you are concerned about them and their children.

5. Provide scholarships for students. We must not forget that many graduates are leaving in this economically-depressed time. A $1,000 college advance for a senior accepted to a college or university is a tremendous help to the parent and economy.

6. Provide incentives for parents with children who are excelling. Twenty dollars for every report card 'A' gives great motivation to parents with school age children. This also provides support and encouragement for others who are not as focused on their children.

7. Public recognition of parents who are excelling. Awards celebrations, newspaper write-ups and anything that will bring exposure to parents stepping up to the plate will provide motivation for increased parental support.

8. Provide parents with flexible working hours to allow them time for education. In cases where employees can complete assignments on weekends or in the afternoon hours, workers should be allowed to give focused time in the morning to settle their children for a successful day at school.

• NB: Ian R Ferguson is a talent management and organisational development consultant, having completed graduate studies with regional and international universities. He has served organsations, both locally and globally, providing relevant solutions to their business growth and development issues. He may be contacted at tcconsultants@coralwave.com.