Dear Editor,

The Grade Four literacy and numeracy tests should not determine a child’s future. This is not the real test.

In today’s world, a child has numerous opportunities. And while many of them will not become lawyers, doctors, pilots or accountants, some who had previously been branded as outcasts may grow up to become experts in the visual arts, entertainment. photography, computer technology and so on. In other words, one must realise that children grow and develop at different rates and therefore we have to find more creative ways to reach every one of them. Mr Editor, the so-called learned early childhood educators and those at the Ministry of Education should know this.

Please do not get me wrong. The numeracy test or GSAT evaluation is very important, but let us not judge our children academically. Rather, let us guide and accept what they become in the future, excluding illegal activities and crime.

Indeed, the athletic prowess of Usain Bolt does not require a BA, BSc or MSc, and as an added bonus, he earns much more money in a flash than so many university professors with their numerous credentials and accolades.

Delroy R Lawrence

fortis-forever@hotmail.com