Creativity for better education

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