Submissions on JTC Bill Reviewed

The National Council on Education has reviewed all submissions on the Jamaica Teaching Council (JTC) Bill and the 1980 Code of Regulations.

“They have canvassed and taken into account everybody’s point of view, and I am pleased to tell you that I have received final report on both issues,” Minister of Education, Hon. Rev. Ronald Thwaites, told the House of Representatives on Wednesday, May 7.

Making his contribution to the 2014/15 Sectoral Debate, the Minister noted that revised versions of the Education Regulations (2014) and JTC Bill will be prepared and carried through the legislative process.

The Jamaica Teaching Council Bill seeks to provide for the establishment of a governing body for the teaching profession, and institute a regime for the licensing and registration of all government paid teachers.

It also gives legal powers to the Council to immediately suspend and cancel the registration of a teacher, who is charged for what is deemed a disqualifiable offence, which includes sexual offences, murder, pornography, robbery, and fraud.

The body will also seek to encourage excellence and improve marginal performance, wherever it exists.