2023-09-14 04:00:00
Our education system deserves bold initiatives. Some might recall the glorious days of the François Legault era as Minister of Education, the idea of a summit on education is now a serious option that should be brought to Mr. Drainville’s desk.
While many applaud this proposal as an opportunity to redefine the educational landscape, others greet it with a mix of cynicism and cautious expectations. In light of this renewed enthusiasm for education, let us examine the reasons, hopes and doubts surrounding this initiative.
Quebec has always had a complex relationship with its education system. On the one hand, it can boast homes of academic excellence, dedicated professors and impressive educational resources. On the other hand, past educational reforms have sometimes left a taste of unfinished business.
It is in this context that the idea of an education summit should emerge once more, with the intention of putting education back at the heart of public debates and political priorities.
Old and new challenges
The previous summit on education, led by François Legault during his time as Minister of Education, remains a significant moment in the educational history of Quebec. He highlighted issues such as academic success, the promotion of teachers and adaptation to technological changes.
If a new summit emerges, it might be an opportunity to revisit these questions as well as explore new challenges such as distance education, the place of sexual minority students, the removal of a year from the curriculum school and more.
However, cynicism is never far away when we talk regarding educational reforms. Under no circumstances should this summit turn into an opportunistic political platform, leaving real educational needs in the background. Others worry regarding the lack of follow-up following such events, citing previous recommendations that sometimes seemed to fade into oblivion once the spotlight faded.
Consensus
Despite these reservations, we must move forward and establish a cross-party dialogue to avoid putting an entire generation under the guillotine. We must believe in the possibility of reimagining education in Quebec by prioritizing a new breath of innovation and creativity in classrooms. We must hope that this summit will bring together diverse voices – teachers, students, parents and experts – to build a strong consensus on the best path forward for the province’s educational future.
In an ever-changing world, education must evolve to stay relevant. The skills needed to succeed in modern society are not fixed, and teaching approaches must adapt accordingly.
A summit on education might be an opportunity to lay the foundations of a more agile education system, capable of preparing young Quebecers for the challenges and opportunities of the 21st century.
If the summit manages to move beyond political games and focus on the real needs of learners and teachers, it might well be the catalyst for positive and lasting educational change in Quebec. The question that remains is: will we be able to cultivate our young minds with the passion and ambition they deserve?
Samael Grant, student in human sciences at Cégep de Matane and recipient of the lieutenant-governor’s medal
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