Teachers told not to get involved in Aware

Aware Saga
Teachers told not to get involved in Aware
DO not say the words 'old guard' and 'new guard'.
02 May 2009

DO not say the words 'old guard' and 'new guard'.

Do not go for the Aware Extraordinary General Meeting (EGM), vote or take sides. Do not be involved in the Aware saga at all.

This was what some school principals told their teachers two days ago.

A teacher who declined to be named told The New Paper: 'My principal warned us not to go as we may be interviewed by the media, and there would be trouble if we were being quoted or someone took our picture.

'We were also told not to join Aware as members, or only join when the problems have been resolved.'

The New Paper spoke to six female teachers who are also Aware members. Two said they will reconsider attending the event, while one has said that she will not be attending as a result of the notice.

The Aware EGM will be held tomorrow at Suntec City Convention Hall 402 from 2pm to 5pm.

Said a secondary school teacher: 'I had actually planned to go but when I heard of this advisory, I decided it would be too risky. I cannot be sure that I will not be photographed and my job is at risk.'

For those who were reconsidering their decision, their careers were their biggest worry.

'My colleagues and I were told that the MOE's stand on the issue was that we are 'discouraged' from going. It sounds like a warning that if I went, there would be consequences to bear impacting my career.'

However, the Ministry of Education (MOE) has clarified that it has not issued any directive. It also does not disallow teachers' participation in the events of Aware, said a spokesman.

The spokesman added: 'MOE does not restrict education officers from joining non-government organisations or taking part in their activities as long as they conduct themselves in a manner that upholds the high standing of the teaching profession.'

Still going

Despite their principals' advice, some teachers are not changing their plans.

A male Aware member who teaches science at secondary level said that he would still be attending the event as he felt he had a right to be concerned about women's rights.

'After all, I cannot vote, so even if I go, it should not matter much. But I feel strongly about the organisation that has helped many people I know and love before, and I will regret it if I don't go.'

Three of the six female teachers said that they would still attend the EGM and cast their votes.

One teacher said: 'This is a personal matter and has no bearing on my professional capability... I want my opinion to be heard.'

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