Focus on Emiratis in education

A lot of problems could be addressed by more focus on the educational needs of Emiratis, a writer argues. Other letter topics: abuse of servants, the birth rate, Indian income tax and bad drivers.

Readers support the idea that students deserve more Emirati teachers in the classroom. Silvia Razgova / The National
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I wholeheartedly agree with Taryam Al Subaihi's column, Lack of Emirati teachers is a disservice to nation's children (March 18).

Each nation needs an inspiring hero to follow morally, culturally and individually. The late Sheikh Zayed inspired the country to achieve incredible feats in a short amount of time and we can see his impact on today's inspiring leadership.

It is my opinion that a myriad of issues might also be resolved with an increased focus on Emiratis in education, such as Emiratisation of the private sector, improved traffic and driving culture, and safety and increased multicultural understanding.

I applaud those who take on this ever-important responsibility.

Trevor Bundus, Abu Dhabi

This is a wonderful article. Mr Al Subaihi's views about Emirati  culture, and the need for Emirati teachers, are more than valid.

I do believe his concerns can be addressed. The question is why have they not been addressed to date. No problem can be solved using the same methods that created the problem.

The article underlines the need for Emirati-driven solutions, rather than those offered by western-oriented education experts and consultants.

Tom Pattillo, Canada Justification for rape is ludicrous

I have never in my life heard a so-called justification for an alleged crime like the one offered in your article, Man 'did not rape' because his wife's prettier (January 18).

The overall mentality of some employers toward their domestic help makes many servants (in this case a Filipina) terribly vulnerable.

I hope this woman gets justice.

And I hope this man gets what he deserves.

Monica Carver, Dubai

Geldof off on population comments

Sir Bob's statement Sir Bob Geldof calls for women to have fewer children (March 16) is apt, to a point.

It makes sense applied in a country like Bangladesh, but not for the GCC or the sub-Saharan region.

Infant mortality is high in the sub-Sahara, so it makes sense to have more children.

What is needed is a localised food security plan as well as selective birth control to address the social, economic and environmental concerns in each area.

Joe Burns, Abu Dhabi

It is the height of arrogance and bad manners to come to country as a guest, as Bob Geldof did recently to the UAE, and comment on the internal and cultural affairs of that country.

Geldof should be more concerned about the rape of countries and their resources by certain other countries, rather than blaming the victims.

Geldof's hosts should have accompanied his brilliant retort with a swift return ticket home.

Ali Aziz, Dubai

Cricketer's feat beginning of end?

I was there, my brother was there and 24,712 other spectators were there (Tendulkar's century of centuries, March 17). Millions watched on television. Sachin Tendulkar got a century.

Now, Sachin has a record which will never be broken.

And yet what I saw today was a slow death of a legend. He was struggling throughout. He played a maiden over when batting in the 80s.

While it was a joy to be there on this momentous occasion, it pained me too much to see Sachin Tendulkar struggle like this.

Anwar Khan, Dubai

Time for India to do away with tax

It is time to consider waiving all income taxes in India, as in Singapore and the UAE (India budget designed to reduce deficit, March 17).

The government in New Delhi should generate revenues through indirect taxes like a value-added tax, or VAT.

Direct taxes like income taxes have led to the creation of a massive collection machinery.

This machine operates in a dilatory manner, and is frequently corrupt.

It is time to be daring, and do away with individual income taxation.

Rajendra K Aneja, Dubai

Bad driving habits begin at home

I refer to UAE drivers are lawless, survey finds (March 4).

Driving is about manners and respecting drivers and pedestrians on the road. It all starts at home; a person's upbringing plays a role in people's behaviour and attitudes with others.

This should be communicated to parents firstly and then to drivers.

Name withheld by request