MOE to help raise standards in special schools

Thursday, March 8 2007

This article fits the category of education and social contexts. It is taken from The Straits Times of Thursday, March 8 2007

I have always lived by the principle that everyone in society should be treated equally and justifiably fairly.

The ministry of education has finally taken steps after several unanswered calls from the MPs to focus more on education quality in special schools such that they do not lose out. These people receiving special education include to people are disabled physical or mentally as well as poorer children who cannot afford to study in mainstream school.
This word “special” termed for their education system should indicate the difference in the approach of teaching them (perhaps methods, pace etc.), but standard of the education should not be specially compromised.
They are already at a natural disadvantage. Some are visually or hearing impaired. Others are autistic or have certain diseases. Nevertheless, they themselves are humans, innocent ones. Doesn’t it show clearly that we should shift our focus more on these children not as a sign of sympathy but a genuine concern to allow them to be integrated into society?
Our government always emphasizes equal opportunities amongst citizens. However, evident in the article, all the while it hasn’t been in context of education. If the education ministry keeps focusing on developing the normal students and grooming them into serving elites or elite servants of the nation, won’t it eventually create a greater social gap between the normal and these special students which is undeniably unwelcome? Children shouldn’t be underprivileged and therefore these efforts are implemented from as elementary as pre-school level.
Fortunately, plans have been implemented like working with special schools to develop targets for learning outcomes, and help audit these schools for quality assurance. More resources will be deposited but what I favour most is the effort and plan to integrate this children into the mainstream education system or satellite classes.

This clearly shows the confidence, determination of the government and assurance to parents to raise this nation with equality in terms of education and given equal opportunities to return his service. Given the number of special schools here, I am convinced the focus of implementation will be more central and feasible.
I personally am very fortunate to receive well rounded education. Though I pity those who are disabled, I am inclined to poorer children. They are physically normal and have the potential to be developed, thus capable in serving the nation. Yet, from such a young age, their future has been ruined because of financial difficulties. The government, interested in raising a capable nation, has taken the initiative to provide funding.
From parents’ perspectives, their only wish is to see their children being treated equally even though they are disadvantaged and in term be able to serve capably in a reasonable capacity. Mindsets of disadvantaged or poorer people doing manual or blue collar worker’s jobs will soon be removed because I trust that with efforts to raise standards (quality, resources etc.) on special education, they can be integrated into normal society and be capable in serving the nation and himself in future.

(499 words)

Ties between Malaysia and Singapore are "good and getting better"

Thursday, March 8, 2007

This blog response fits the category of political and social context. It is taken from Tuesday, March 6 2007, The Straits Times.

Close bilateral ties equate to peace.

In this increasingly globalised world, I see that the strongest assurance of Singapore’s continued growth is to forge and maintain positive diplomatic relationships with neighbouring countries.

It is important because of its geographical proximity. Neighbouring ties provide a direct and more immediate support for each other in terms of resources and defence etc.

Singapore is only a tiny red dot. We have no natural resources. Without close relationship with our neighbours, we may not know who to turn to in the event of crisis. This was exactly the problem faced in recent years where Singapore and Malaysia had some disagreements on certain bilateral matters and prompted some Malaysian politicians threatening cutting water supply to us.

In my opinion; the obstacle to close ties is the lack of open-mindedness and mutual understanding. This time, it was the accomplishment of these two criteria that relationships improved.

As stated, not all current bilateral problems have been solved but it is the implementations of new initiatives on each side by not only seeing, but acting on the importance of stronger ties. These help to kick start a new phase of good relationship. Examples such as holding retreats which will foster closer relationships between senior government officials at various levels, as also were reported in the news.

From both governments’ perspectives, they welcome initiatives which will strengthen mutual relationships. Malaysia gets an advantage by gaining ideas and economic help in their mass development of large undeveloped land. Singapore has done tremendous good deeds (infrastructure development, economic and social assistance) for her citizens and I am very sure they would go the extra mile in helping the welfare of other countries in the region.

According to the article, it stresses that close cooperation benefits the people. I am a part of this small nation. My government has done its job in ensuring mutual trust and we directly benefit as a nation, overcoming our disadvantage of lack of resources and the need for mutual protection. However, what is the long term mutual benefit which all citizens and government aim to find?

It is undeniably ensuing long term peace. Peace can solve social problems (wars which is dreadful for Singapore). Material needs are essential but harmony between neighbouring nations is important. It is now up to each and every individual to ensure maintaining of this relationship.

Not only education or mindset but actions must be contributed evidently by individuals. Acts of mutual respect, understanding and kindness can aid in improving personal bonds even if we might not know that person of neighbouring countries. Though I admit that I myself do not make friends when in Malaysia but I simply respect them and their culture.

Therefore, as much as I would want to commend both governments on initiatives to a new phase of relationship, I would like to stress that individuals like me and you can make a difference in motivating and strengthening ties.

(481 words)