BATANG KALI, Sept 27 — Comprehensive cooperation on government efforts from all parties is needed to tackle the issue of school dropouts in the country, said Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim.
He said children must not be left behind, and should be supported with collaborative efforts to grow their skills.
“We must give them space and a second chance in education. Dropping out is not a new thing, but it became more complicated and challenging when Covid-19 hit.
“Parents should (also) be responsible (to discourage their kids from dropping out). Teachers have to be burdened as they have a duty to save children lagging behind, so these kids must make the best of this chance,” he said.
A recording of Anwar’s speech was played at the launch of the “Anak Kita: Semarak Potensi Malaysia” programme at SK Rasa here today, which was attended by Education Minister Fadhlina Sidek and Finance Minister II Datuk Seri Amir Hamzah Azizan.
Anwar said although the Education Ministry (MOE) was given already RM58.7 billion in Budget 2024, RM100 million more was allocated to implement the programme, which addresses the issue of school dropouts.
“This additional allocation is given because of the MOE’s concern about dropouts, and to avoid overburdening the ministry on top of its existing responsibilities,” he said.
Anwar expressed hope that the programme, which involves collaborations between the Finance Ministry, the MOE, Hasnah Foundation, the private sector, and civil society, will be fully utilised.
“This collaboration will allow us to explore various areas, particularly in digital and information technology, which are in high demand.
“Hopefully, through this initiative, we can expand its implementation and combat poverty, as the school dropout issue is directly linked to poverty,” said the Prime Minister.
The “Anak Kita” programme focuses on interventions for students with weak education basics, with tutoring and face-to-face or hybrid learning opportunities beyond regular school hours.
— Bernama
