We need to reshape the exam-driven culture

Dear Editor,

Significant attention needs to be focused on reshaping the exam-driven culture we have developed in Guyana.  This trend has caused significant harm and is in danger of compromising one of the boldest reforms in local education initiated in recent times.  There is no better place to start than the crucial primary cycle. We are all too familiar with the shortcomings of the existing Grade Six Assessments (formerly the Secondary School Entrance Examinations).  The initiation of the continuous assessment approach was hailed as a step in the right direction by many in the business of education.  Though it holds tremendous promise, its benefits could elude us if it is not implemented in the manner it was intended.