From contradictions to solutions

By Herman M. Lagon

THE COUNTRY is a land of contradictions in the area of education. It boasts commendable completion rates and higher education participation, yet beneath the surface lies a complex web of challenges that have long plagued its educational landscape. As we delve into this intricate tapestry, we must remember that our goal is not merely to pinpoint the problems but to explore viable solutions, all the while acknowledging how wrong governance has played a pivotal role in eroding the foundation of our educational system.

One of the most pressing issues is the need for more qualified educators. The heart of any educational system beats with the caliber of its teachers. However, classrooms are graced by underqualified, under-compensated, or overworked instructors in many corners of our nation. The principle of “cura personalis,” the care for the individual, underscores the need for well-prepared, motivated, and focused educators to nurture the minds of our youth.

Financial constraints also loom large, casting a shadow over our schools. While education should ideally be a beacon of hope, insufficient funding dims its radiance. A lack of resources, overcrowded classrooms, and outdated curricula only perpetuate the cycle of underachievement. We must call upon our leaders to prioritize adequate funding for education.

Child labor remains a grave concern in the Philippines, robbing countless children of their education rights. Their involvement in hazardous work disrupts their academic journey and exposes them to physical and psychological harm. Pursuing education should be a haven, not a perilous path. We must stand firm in our resolve to eradicate child labor, ensuring every child receives the education they deserve.

Corruption, a blight that has persisted far too long, tarnishes our educational system. It erodes trust and diverts resources that could otherwise enhance the quality of education. Our nation must rise above corruption, aligning with integrity and ethical leadership values.

The COVID-19 pandemic, an unforeseen challenge, has forced our educational system to adapt swiftly. While online learning has bridged gaps, it has also exposed disparities in internet access, creating a digital divide. We must embrace technology as a tool for progress while ensuring equitable access to education for all.

In pursuing solutions, increasing education funding emerges as a key strategy. Adequate resources can alleviate the burdens of overcrowded classrooms, dilapidated laboratories, and outdated materials. Moreover, investing in teacher training, professional development, student-teacher ratio enhancement, and load reduction is imperative to elevate the quality of instruction.

Educational reforms must also be at the forefront of our efforts. A curriculum that blends theory with practical learning can better prepare our youth for the challenges of the modern world. A renewed focus on critical thinking, creativity, and problem-solving can help shape well-rounded individuals.

To counteract child labor, we must vigorously enforce laws protecting our children’s education rights, including their mental wellness and accessibility to the digital world. Government initiatives and partnerships with non-governmental organizations can support and rehabilitate those affected.

The fight against corruption necessitates transparency and accountability in educational governance, calling for leaders who are “men and women of competence, conscience, and compassionate commitment.” It is paramount that our educational leaders embody these values.

As we navigate the complex currents of our educational system, let us remember that the road to progress is paved with collective action. Each of us, in our respective roles, can contribute to transforming our educational landscape. We are not isolated entities but members of a larger community bound by a shared commitment to the greater good.

***

Doc H fondly describes himself as a ‘student of and for life’ who, like many others, aspires to a life-giving and why-driven world that is grounded in social justice and the pursuit of happiness. His views herewith do not necessarily reflect those of the institutions he is employed or connected with.