Dear Editor,
A few days before the beginning of this school term I saw on Linden television, for the first time, the programme, ‘Linden Technical Institute and You.’ I was not even aware that this institution had a new principal in the person of Mr Dennis Jaikarran, and if it is the case that the Linden community wasn’t notified, then this was not a nice thing. Anyway, he along with senior lecturers of this institute were enlightening the Linden community, Region 10, about the broad outlines of its role; the various subjects being taught; the way programmes are structured; the methods employed; the code of discipline; the students-parents associate guild, aimed at involving the participation of the wider community; and projections and activities to the end of the year. They finally pleaded with the community for their support and cooperation, and to open up and accept their invitation to become partners, thereby helping the institution to realize its full potential through the achievements of students.
Well, looking at this programme and listening keenly to the details of the various courses which were dealt with very lucidly, I must say that it was very heartening and commendable and did appear to be a positive move. Only a few months back I had cause to highlight questions and some harsh criticism made against the LT by one former senior lecturer, Mr Jonathan Adams. It is an accepted fact that the LT is presently only a shadow of its once proud, pristine self, with more than its fair share of negativism and stigma, more especially seen in the brazen and disreputable conduct by many of the students. As I had pointed out also, this former reputable landmark technical institute, which was called the Demba Trade School and was under Demba’s management, once set a pace and standard unmatched by any other technical institute in the country – nay, the Caribbean! It produced some of the finest craftsmen we have come to know, who have served in a number of instances with unparalleled distinction beyond our borders. It made every parent proud upon learning that his/her son had been selected for one of the coveted 20-25 apprentice slots required. But that was some time ago, and all of the above mentioned has been lost. It has since then gone through many changes in terms of physical extension, a larger intake of both sexes, different criteria for entrance; a wide range of courses offered, etc.
Editor, I’m optimistic that notwithstanding the decline of this institution, if this comprehensive and thoughtful approach which was presented to the Linden public by the new principal and his staff gets into full swing, we can expect to see this institution once again occupying the prominent position and enjoying the reputation it was once celebrated for.
Yours faithfully,
Frank Fyffe
