UNTRAINED TEACHERS IN GOVERNMENT AND AIDED SCHOOLS AS AT 31-12-1962 (Number)

Mr Chan Sun Wing asked the Minister for Education what was the total number of untrained teachers in all the streams in Government schools and aided schools, respectively, as at 31st December, 1962; and whether the services of those who are not selected for training will be terminated.

Mr Yong Nyuk Lin: Mr Speaker, Sir, the total number of untrained teachers in all the streams as at 31st December, 1962, was 6,797 made up as follows:- (a) (b) in in Government Government Schools Aided Schools Total Malay 618 28 646 Chinese 626 2,544 3,170 Tamil 10 15 25 English 2,086 870 2,956 Total 3,340 3,457 6,797

Of this number, that is to say, 6,797 untrained teachers, 1,814 who joined the teaching service prior to 1959, training at the Teachers' Training College is not compulsory. All others are required to undergo training if selected by the Public Service Commission.

For those not selected for training by the Public Service Commission for some reason or other, it is the normal practice to terminate their services after reasonable notice having been given. However, in special cases appeal for permission to continue in service till the next Public Service Commission selection may be considered, if strongly recommended by principals of schools on grounds of satisfactory service, financial circumstances, and a second chance to make up for the requisite academic qualifications for admission to the Teachers' Training College.