Making a case for Civic Education in our schools
The Minister of Education Youth and Sports Mr. Wycliffe Smith seemed very structured in reporting and informing the Public on everything the ministry has been involved with and are invited to be a part of. Such customs seem to suggest, that is the primary responsibility of the Minister. There appears to be no new insights or vision coming from the ministry as to what projects are been carried out to enhance our educational system to benefit the future generation.
For example, how much time and study have gone into to assessing what our current educational system is providing to help our children develop properly, and to take on the challenges of our day? We expect much from our youth today but the real question should be; what are they taught in our schools? How can we expect certain types of behavior and practices from young people when they are not taught such values in our School system?
As one who have come from the ranks of Education, I am always envisioning how we can improve our educational system to best prepare our children to function as responsible citizens with certain values that can only be learnt if it is taught to them. I’m therefore recommending that we waste no time in putting a committee together to look over all school curriculums and make suggestions to add or improve where necessary, the type of subjects we believe should be taught in our schools to benefit our children in a more productive way. One such case is the subject of Civics and the importance of the values and awareness the subject can and will teach our students, and by extension prepare them to become productive citizens.
In brief, what exactly is Civics?
Civics is a subject that touches every person’s life. It teaches the value of being an active citizen in the community. It teaches the importance of taking part in politics and helping to choose the leaders of local, state and national government. It teaches how laws shape society and how they protect individuals. It teaches how the rights granted by government come with responsibilities and not to abuse those rights. The word “civics” is based on an ancient Latin word “Civicus,” which means “of a citizen.” Studying civics gives meaning to values that have come to define what it means to be a citizen of any civilized country. Many of these values are expressed in our constitution and Bill of Rights. Which includes: The concept of fairness and equality; the commitment to protect the rights of individuals and also to promote the common good; Respect for our law and Justice; The recognition of the importance of diversity, openness and the free exchange of Ideas.
This type of education will give rise to more interest in our laws and our constitution. Think of what this would mean for the children of tomorrow if they are taught these values in our school system. If this type of education cannot get the support of the ministry of Education it’s difficult to say what will, or whether we take the development of our children seriously.
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