By| Farooq Ahmad Lone
As the sayings “Knowledge is power” and “Knowledge is light” both indicate, there is a strong bond between education and power. Education is not only about academic literacy or securing employment. It is also about moral values, personality development, social development, activism, and empowerment. Education should be viewed as a tool to transform a person, as it imparts training to the mind to think beyond one’s immediate surroundings and contemplate various problems facing society. From this perspective, one develops a view of education that is based on collective development and empowerment.
Contemplating on today’s state of affairs in our valley, we are seeing a mass of people getting literate day by day. But unfortunately, the goals of social development and empowerment remain unfulfilled. While it takes a great deal of effort—from individuals to institutions—to bring change on the ground, the starting point is the teacher.
A teacher not only teaches students but also holds enough influence to impart training and discipline. A teacher gives lessons as well as inspiration to boost students’ morale in areas like career development, personality growth, and social responsibility. Students retain their teacher’s words with deep respect and reverence, firmly believing in their guidance. A good teacher becomes a role model whose advice students strive to put into action. A teacher should use this golden opportunity to raise the best in their students, empowering them to face life’s challenges boldly and live a life of action and potential.
Besides the teacher, educational institutions must also transform to bring about societal change. It is high time robust reforms are introduced in how knowledge, skills, and values are imparted. Schools, as temples of knowledge, must be equipped with capable teachers and state-of-the-art technology to transmit knowledge effectively. Schools should also focus on developing moral values in students—especially in this age of materialism and consumerism—as these values shape a more humane and ethical character.
Morning assemblies can be powerful platforms for prayers and student presentations. These can help make children morally stronger while removing their fear of expressing talent and skills in front of others.
The role of the government is also crucial in this mission. Beyond framing strong education policies, the state must monitor the performance of teachers and institutions. More skill-based courses should be introduced at the college level, and the syllabi for lower classes need regular updates to reflect the demands of the modern era.
The days of “A for Apple,” “B for Boy,” and “C for Cat” are behind us. We need to introduce stronger, updated textbooks so that students in higher classes are ready to grasp new lessons and acquire relevant skills.
Let us march collectively towards this great—but challenging—mission of empowerment through education
Author: Farooq Ahmad Lone can be reached at [email protected]