APROPOS the article ‘Is education a priority?’ (June 16), the writer illustrates how poor the quality of education is at all levels for most Pakistanis, barring the few that can study at more expensive private or elite government schools, colleges and universities. Surprisingly, however, he has failed to outline any solutions to the problems highlighted in the article.
At present, our educational system does not allow our children to explore their potential fully, as the system is based on rote learning, devoid of any creativity and innovation. This lack of interest and motivation is one reason why so many drop out of school.
Every individual is unique and born with certain inherent potential or talent, which helps in learning things easily and quickly. Psychologists call this ‘aptitude’. In Pakistan, however, the preferred method of instruction assumes that everyone can learn different materials in the same pedagogy, without assessment and evaluation of aptitudes of students of various grades and levels. Due to the lack of a learner-centred approach along with the lack of counselling and guidance about their aptitudes, many students face uncertainty in their selection of subjects and career path.
To meet this challenge, educational institutions must shift their focus from theoretical teaching to a leaner-centred, practical approach along with adequate counselling and guidance for students to understand their potential and aptitude, to choose the right career path and to be empowered in their educational choices.
Hina Shakil
Karachi