REORGANISATION OF EDUCATION SYSTEM (Redundant teachers)

Mr L. P. Rodrigo asked the Minister for Education (a) whether the proposed re-organisation of the education system will result in some teachers being redundant; (b) what categories of teachers will be considered redundant in the context of the proposed re-organisation; and (c) whether such redundant teachers will continue to be employed in the Education Service; or whether plans are being made to provide alternative employment for every teacher who is found to be redundant.

Dr Lee Chiaw Meng (for the Minister for Education): Mr Speaker, Sir, I have been asked by my Minister to reply. The education system is still in the process of being reorganised and it is still too early to know the full effects of such a reorganisation. Plans are being considered to provide re-training of general teachers so that they can be deployed for vocational and technical education.