EDITOR – We all acknowledge that the entire system of education in South Africa is in need of a huge overhaul. This cannot be done by making minor changes here and there. We have to look at what education is and how it affects every one of us – and the fact that education is not just what happens in schools and tertiary education.
Education means life long learning. It does not, should not be considered as the receipt of some certificate, some document. To be educated one has to develop the ability to learn to think. It does not end at some institution. And early education is vital. Children need to learn to read with comprehension – and enjoyment. I still remember the excitement I encountered with “The Land of the Far-away Tree” by Enid Blyton. That book led me to join a library when I was five years old.
Children too must acquire the skills to communicate. And in turn this must lead to the ability to think and analyse. Now if our teachers are to succeed they must be able to think independently.
Unfortunately many focus on issues that have little validity: such as ridiculous rules like “You can’t start a sentence with and or but.” Thank goodness children doing “history” no longer spend six months learning about “The Great Trek.”
This brings me to another outdated monstrosity: the wearing of full colonial school uniform in many Durban schools. Why do you still impose the wearing of colonial style school uniforms in a climate and culture where such clothing is inappropriate?
For most parents the cost of such uniforms is unaffordable, so why are schools punitive to the parents? A basic uniform suited to our climate with the school badge affixed to a pocket could be the answer.
If educators are not perceived as people worthy of respect, whose behaviour reflects decency and accountability, they will only damage our country. Of course this is true of all South African leaders!
Retired teacher
Musgrave
*Letter shortened – Editor
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