Almost a month after the rules governing the Speaker's Corner are laxed since September 1 - with speakers being able to hold talks without registering with the police, a 24-hour flexibilty, the circle being opened to permanent residents, and being able to touch on sensitive issues such as race and religion allowed - why is it that the participation level at the Speaker's Corner is so low? Or rather, lower than I expected, to say the least.
The root is easily found: Singaporeans are too obedient.
Blame it on our education and culture. We have been brought up in a stimulated culture and a certain way of upbringing that tells us "No, don't do this, because it is not right.", or "Stop! You must do this." Since young, we have been nurtured to do all the "right" things. And by "right", the definition stems from the government who monitors the society with a tool called Legislation.
Yes, rules and regulations are essential in maintaining peace and stability in the country - and Singapore government have done a fine job at that. Look at our growing economy, budget surpluses and peaceful society. I am glad to be living in Singapore.
However, if our education system, being ranked one of the best in the world, actually serves to promote foundational knowledge and life skills like competition being evident in every corner of the classroom, but yet stifle our boldness, creativity and critical thinking, is it all that beneficial?
I had an extremely engaging conversation with my friend. We spoke about Singapore's policies and what changes are encouraged to stratigically position Singapore to grab a bigger global pie. Believe me, this is the most interesting conversation I've had so far.
Q: So, what do u think needed to be changed in the current Singapore system?
A: The government needs to downsize (on its degree of control) as there is too much intervention.
We subscribe to effing corporatism. This nation is run like a large company. (My friend added that this is the reason why there is less bona fide belonging observed in Singapore).
Q: So, if you were President, what is the first thing you would do - be it policy implementation or changes in the reform?
A: Education is the first thing I would address. A good deal of what society develops to become stems from the quality of education. The reason why our society is so rigid in thought and low on passion is because of the way we were taught in school.
She continued to talk about how she taught in schools.
Her class rules:
"Iin my class, you may swear, wear whatever you please, style your hair in such a way that it takes attention away from your faces, challenge my ideas, and be yourselves completely. Just don't touch me."
You may not agree with everything entirely, but this method has proved to close the generational gap between teachers and students. Many of the students actually regard my friend as their friend, a person to seek for advices. And this is what we want to achieve - definitely not through scolding.
Countless times I have asked people to tell me one teacher that has inspired them, and I always find myself staring into a blank face. Their answer? A flat "none" - without a hint of hesitation. How many teachers truly inspire?
Then its a whole different story when I talk to my overseas pal. They enjoy school, they enjoy life, they are creative, and most importantly, they DARE to speak up.
Singapore has been encouraging entrepreneuship in our country to continue our economic growth and to have an edge over the global economy. My advise: Revise the curriculum.
Yes, they have recognised the importance of education. The government have put in place measures such as eradicating barriers of entry for Small-medium Enterprises (SMEs) and making bank loans easier, as well as organising competitions at school levels pertaining to entreprenuership. I remember going through the excitment of setting up my own business from scratch. But sad to say, it is different in the real world. And I do not wish to say this, but Singaporean students are acutely aware of this fact.
Ultimately, the best way is to change the way we are taught, inculcate more lessons outside of classrooms. There is so much more than can be done.
Food for thought!
Note: All confidentiality of any names is observed.
Labels: General Affairs
