Need for transparency

Sunday May 18, 2008
Need for transparency
THREE years ago, when my daughter scored 11As in her SPM, I thought she hada good chance of obtaining a JPA scholarship and then serving the government.

It was not to be, and the outcome was more frustrating when classmates who had not performed as well, were awarded scholarships.

My wife and I then decided to let her pursue another degree programme at our expense in an American university. She is now doing very well in her final year.

Several companies have offered her internships. While we are proud of her and support her move to stay in the country that offers her the best opportunities, we think it is a waste that she's not coming back here, where her expertise will be most required.

Our national leaders often talk about the acute shortage of professionals, who leave for more lucrative jobs in other countries. But, why shouldn't they?

It is about time that there is transparency in everything the government does – from varsity placings, scholarships to jobs.

The government has recently stated that it wants professionals to return home to serve. However, it has to be sincere, othewise, we will continue losing our best brains and not be as competitive globally.

ROY NG Via e-mail