The reported decision by the Government to recruit approximately 300 teachers from Ghana raises serious concerns and demands a full explanation.
Before looking overseas, did the Government exhaust every effort to recruit qualified Bahamian educators?
Across Grand Bahama and throughout The Bahamas, trained and certified teachers remain unemployed or underemployed. These Bahamians have invested in their education, are ready and willing to serve, and deserve the first opportunity to teach in our nation’s classrooms.
As a former educator, I know firsthand that many qualified Bahamians have applied for teaching positions over the years but have never been afforded the opportunity to serve. At this time, I am personally aware of at least four qualified guidance counsellors who have applied for positions and have yet to receive even the courtesy of a response from the Ministry of Education.
This is not about diminishing the valuable contributions of international educators. It is about ensuring that qualified Bahamians are not overlooked while employment opportunities are extended abroad.
The Government owes the Bahamian people clear answers:
How many qualified Bahamian teachers applied for available positions?
How many of those applicants were offered employment?
What specific circumstances made it necessary to recruit approximately 300 teachers from overseas?
The Bahamian people deserve transparency, fairness, and accountability. A government that professes to put Bahamians first must demonstrate that commitment by ensuring qualified Bahamians are given every opportunity to serve their own country before recruiting abroad.
Our educators are nation builders. They shape young minds, strengthen our communities, and help secure the future of The Bahamas.
Qualified Bahamians must always come first.
Frazette Gibson
Member of Parliament, Central Grand Bahama