By RADHICA SOOKRAJ, Guardian

Gender and ethnic studies will be introduced in schools to combat the race problems in the T&T, says Prime Minister Patrick Manning.

He said a comprehensive programme of education is needed to deal with racism which is undermining the country.

Manning was speaking at a news conference after the PNM’s General Council meeting yesterday at GTM Building, San Fernando.

His comments comes in the wake of a death threat to UNC leader Basdeo Panday which read: “Two Bullets for You, You racial mother...”.

Manning explained that the real problem with race was that it was being used in politics.

“There are people (politicians) who are willing to exploit race at election time and now that there is a racial balance in the country, that exploitation is going on beyond elections,” Manning said.

He said: “There is need for such a programme.
“A lot of misunderstanding and potential conflict in the country arises from lack of education and misconception (about race).”

Saying education is the key, Manning explained that gender and ethnic studies will be helpful in erasing the stains of racialism in the country.