Freedom to choose
High educational standards and periodic reforms ensure that pupils are at the centre of focus ("Raising teens", Speak Your Mind, Gulf News, November 14). However, we must allow pupils to choose their goals and dreams, too. Our responsibility is to guide, advise and monitor them from a distance. But how should this distance be measured? I think it depends on the personality of the teenager and his or her ability to distinguish between right and wrong. Most importantly, the pupil must be able to take a stand on any issue, regardless of whether we support it or not. Ultimately, as adults, we should not choose for our teenagers, but rather help them decide for themselves.
From Mr Murad L.
Al Ain
The bigger picture
As a graduate of BITS - Pilani, in Dubai, I do not think students who have yet to complete their education are fully aware of the benefits they reap from university rules ("Students see bleak future at BITS campus", Gulf News, November 14). I do agree that sometimes, rules are stringent and fines are imposed as a penalty. However, this kind of system helped discourage me from violating rules. I feel sorry for those that are not learning a bigger lesson from their university years.
From Ms Kavitha Premkumar
UAE
Boarding is better
Recently, I came across many reports and complaints on how pupils are forced to spend several hours on the road, when commuting to and from school. It is quite obvious that school buses are partly to blame for traffic congestion on highways and main roads during rush hour. This is why I suggest building boarding schools in the country. Children would then be able to reside in hostels within the school campus.
From Mr M. S. Johash
UAE
Page last updated 01 January 2020