Creativity for better education

In a recent discussion in Jakarta, intellectuals lamented the stifled growth of serious and creative thinking habits in our society. This happens in a society whose life standard is moving up.

One of the signs is that no great works of art have come out of this nation. Many of the thoughts expressed in newspapers by experts in politics, economics and culture reflect similarly shallow analysis.

The young generation, dictated by their milieu, has chosen white collar businessmen or high government officials as their model. They have yet to learn to appreciate an achievement in science or the arts.

But does a better standard of living have any connection with this trend? Prosperity may bring about numerous conveniences but on the other hand, a society caught in transition also gives birth to great thinkers.

When we look at the prosperous renaissance period in Europe, freedom of thinking and creativity was at its height.

Has our daily work and routines left us with no time to sit back and reflect? Very rapid changes are taking place in all sectors around us. Aren't these very changes demanding our critical and serious thinking?

With this reflection, we commemorate Teachers' Day on Nov. 25 and our minds go out to schools where students, in their tender years, are preparing themselves to enter life.

We are concerned about schools which have become a target of political and economic interests.

The essence of the teachers' profession is education and we are worried about the lowly image of teachers, today given the noble endeavor of their work.

--Surabaya Post