Ministry yet to decide on allowances for Institute of Teacher Education students

BUTTERWORTH: The Education Ministry has yet to make a decision on the issue of living and travel allowances for the Institute of Teacher Education (IPG) students.
Education Minister Datuk Seri Mahdzir Khalid (pix) said discussions were being held with the National Higher Education Fund (PTPTN) to assist in paying the allowances for the June 2018 group.
He said there was no firm conclusion to the matter so far and urged for patience from the media and the public.
"Please wait for my official statement, I will issue a statement on the matter soonest," he said in a press conference after opening the Malaysia Headmasters Council Convention here.
Allowances amounting to RM430 monthly for the June 2018 intake enrolled in the Bachelor of Teaching Degree Program (PISMP) was reportedly stopped.
The Education Ministry would however continue to bear the four year tuition fee of RM27,831.
Mahdzir nonetheless stressed existing students (those who enrolled before June next year) would continue to receive their allowances until graduation.
"We are seeking for a solution for the intake next year," he added.
When asked about the issue of excessive workbooks as highlighted by theSun on Monday, Mahdzir said the issue was not new.
He said the matter was happening since 10 years ago and was due to parents placing high demands on the quality of education.
He said the public placed great stress on academic excellence and therefore wanted students to read and study many books.
"But this is not the right way, students can explore and work on additional workbooks but it should not be too excessive," he said.
Mahdzir said his ministry would investigate claims workbook sales representatives were allegedly offering kickbacks to sell more books but declined to comment further.