During the past year, we have talked a lot about education. We have been happy about the good results of our students in an international comparison, but we have also discussed teachers’ salaries, the future of small schools and the language of learning.
All these stories have not always been rosy. The bar of our expectations is high, and of course we feel worried if there is a lack of money, skilled teachers or the attention of decision-makers for the desired ideal. Many of these discussions continue and must continue in the academic year that has started. If problems have accumulated over a long period of time, they will not be solved overnight.
But while the general tone of the discussions may be worried, it is still positive that the question of good education is at the fore in all of them. In other words: how to ensure a successful, smart and smart future for our young people – and society in general.
This must be the main question, after which all others align. Education must not remain hostage to convenience or counting pennies. Especially since today’s choices determine the future of an entire generation.
Not all decisions necessary for the quality of education are comfortable or painless. For example, not every young person can study in a neighboring house or home village for the whole school period, if the classes are too small or there is no specialist subject teacher.
The central aim of the review of the school network must be to ensure that all young people have the opportunity to receive an education that meets their interests and is versatile with the help of learned teachers. And at an accessible distance.
Are exceptions possible? Of course it is. Even a village school with three to forty students can be successful if the community supports it with all its might and the quality of education is not compromised. Then the local government should not turn its head away from a viable libertarian initiative.
Also, studying in Russian has left too many young people in Estonian society at a dead end and often pushed them into a foreign information space. The merciless statistics clearly show that the starting bids for the future of these youngsters are not even in the stadium, figuratively speaking.
It is unfair to them and wrong to society as a whole. The fears of switching to Estonian-language education are understandable, but I am convinced that our teachers do everything to ensure that the students’ academic results do not deteriorate.
This year, more young people than ever before wanted to study as a teacher in Estonian universities. I believe that this is a sign that these same discussions have helped young people understand the value of education and teachers.
It is the task of all of us to help so that tomorrow, when the study begins, both young people and teachers can focus all their energy on learning. To do this, everyone needs a supportive environment at home and at school, especially those who are currently in the midst of change.
Let learning and teaching remain an honor.
Happy New Year of Wisdom!
2024-09-01 18:41:25
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