Educational Reform - Suttyhudeo Tengur: "The Blueprint is Incompatible with the Education Act and Therefore Doomed to Fail"

Suttyhudeo Tengur, a negotiator for the Government Hindi Teachers’ Union (GHTU), expresses strong concerns about the new educational reform plan unveiled by the Ministry of Education in Mauritius. He argues that the Blueprint fails to create consensus among stakeholders, despite previous consultations aimed at fostering collaboration. Tengur warns that the legality of the proposal remains unproven, as it conflicts with the Education Act, which he believes will lead to its eventual failure.

He stresses that any reform must be carefully planned to align with the specificities of Mauritius, referencing a Privy Council ruling that mandates a minimum two-year notice for changes to assessments, particularly competitive exams. He fears that the Blueprint's disregard for this legal requirement puts the entire reform at risk of being challenged in court.

Tengur asserts that a successful educational reform must be based on solid legal foundations and calls for the active involvement of the Diocesan Catholic Education Service (SeDEC), stating that any reform excluding SeDEC's participation is destined to fail. He highlights that the current measures primarily benefit the elite rather than providing equitable access to education.

In contrast, Dr. Manoj Sunassee from the United Deputy Rector and Rector's Union (UDRRU) appreciates the consultative approach of the reform process but urges a focus on social justice to address systemic inequalities. He believes that the school plays a crucial role in social mobility and that the reform should include robust mechanisms to rectify disparities.

Furthermore, Mohammad Akeel Bundhoo, president of the Union of Rectors and Deputy Rectors of State Secondary Schools, supports the ministry’s proposed changes, arguing that the mixed schooling system has created more issues than it has solved, particularly noting declines in student performance and discipline problems.

The Ministry of Education is currently conducting a public consultation regarding the future of the secondary education system in Mauritius, proposing two options for reform aimed at modernizing the school system and alleviating student pressure. The suggestions reflect an effort to enhance educational equity and prepare future generations for a more inclusive society.

As the debate continues, the crucial question remains whether the education system is equipped to implement these ambitious reforms effectively, given the historical challenges in aligning educational policy with practical execution.