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(NYASATIMES) Chaponda attacked on quota system remarks

Chaponda attacked on quota system remarks
By Nyasa Times
Published: February 14, 2010

Minister of Education, Dr George Chaponda has been criticized for his press conference remarks that the controversial higher education admissions system that obliges universities to enroll students according to district quotas rather than straight merit is a temporary scheme and the idea was hatched by the University Council.

Chaponda told journalists that quota system has divided Malawians along tribal and ethnic lines is a “temporary measure until such a time as public universities are expanded to accommodate all deserving students.” He also said the idea was conceived by University Council and government.

However, opposition Alliance for Democracy (Aford) said Chaponda’s remarks were “regrettable, inconsistent and very misleading”.

Dan Msowoya Aford is director of political affairs said claims that quota was hatched by University Council were false considering that the system has been supported by President Bingu wa Mutharika and even vowed its implementation and success in spite of opposition or legal prohibition.

“This apparent attempt to back track on vows of the governing elite at this late hour indicates that we are governed on a trial and error basis, and the Government endorsement of this policy their lack of grasp of the deep concerns and challenges confronting our country,” said Msowoya.

The policy is aimed at discouraging a trend under the merit system that saw Malawians from the north entering higher education in greater numbers than their compatriots from the south.

“The gratuitous persecution and vilification of Northern Malawians is indicative of political escapism and cheap politicking. These are characteristic of failure and cowardice,” said Msowoya.

“We wish to remind our governing elite that the awesome task of governing should not be abused to settle unsubstantiated grudges. Leadership is a privilege to serve and not a right to trample on the rights of others. If the burdens and business of leadership have become too onerous it is only proper to abdicate honorably and pass the baton to those in the right frame of mind to lead,” he added.

Livingstonia Synod of the CCAP church petitioned President Mutharika against the system but a planned demonstration was foiled by the police.

The clerics argued that access to higher education should rather be improved by building more schools and universities in Malawi. They also complained that some of their members had been persecuted by the government for their position on quotas.

Levi Nyondo, General secretary of synod was quoted by the Nation newspaper as saying: “To us, whether it is temporary or permanent, we still regard it as a bad thing. It’s still discriminatory.”

Labels: ELIMINATION EXAMS, GEORGE CHAPONDA

posted by MrK @ 8:26 PM