I would like to proffer an assertion which I hope would be considered in light of schools being reopened next week; Education is not just about preparing a child to earn a living but also about developing the child’s character.

The development of one’s character is quintessential, every aspect of a child’s character – not only mental, physical and social but also spiritual.

In this way a child is a fully developed individual.

Against this background I point you to the need for the reintroduction of Religious Education, since without this one may earn a doctorate but act in a manner that is morally unacceptable, for example he may be taking bribes.

We must develop every aspect of character of our youth!

Around the 1970’s religious education was taken out of the curriculum and prayers were also taken out. In those days most schools belonged or were overseen by a religious group before they were taken over by the government.

Now without religious education we have the teachers, equipped only with an academic curriculum, who mould the minds of our children.

While the efforts of some are to be lauded there are others whose attitude do not uplift or contribute to the development of our children.

Some of them may teach something now and the next second they are seen in the rum shops. This causes children to disrespect them and eventually causes a breakdown in the classrooms.

We need to introduce our children to the best role model and who else besides the Almighty.

Back in the 1970’s all the schools had religious education but now only some private schools teach religious education.

That being said there is the acknowledgement that not every child can afford to attend a private school.

All children must be able to access religious education.

Granted we are a diverse country but religious education should be made compulsory with a choice for the Hindus, Muslims and Christians – our three main religions.

An acknowledgement of God enables a better individual.

Now the question of viability will be raised by the naysayer but there are persons from the religious community willing to volunteer their time and effort to make this a reality.

Persons from the said community will draft the syllabus and work to assist the incorporation of religious education in schools.

Relative to the time constraints, the limited teaching hours that are available for the completion of the present curriculum, we must all understand that there is no substitute for Religious Education.

Times change and people change but moral principles are unchanging and this is what will improve the quality of citizens the ‘System’ produces at the end of the day.
Mrs. DATTAI SINGH