Reviving teacher empowerment and academic freedom this Teacher's Day

The new line-up of the newly formed government, along with the “eminent persons” as “council of elders”, can be seen as a positive and strong move for the country to regain its status and in pursuit of smooth administration.

We can see different people of different ages, backgrounds and experiences being given trust and hope to bring Malaysia to its glory again.

This is so welcoming, not only because we value different ideas from different generations, but it is also acknowledging our local expertise. It is timely to look from within, as we have many potential Malaysians who can contribute to the development of Malaysia in many ways not limited to the country’s economy.

In light of this, and in celebrating our Teacher’s Day that is commemorated on May 16, I would like to request that the new government look further at the education policy of all levels pertaining to the role of education and its standard, as well as the role of teachers and university academics.

Clear, unique and distinctive portfolios are needed to revive teacher empowerment and academic freedom.

In fact, “Teaching in Freedom, Empowering Teachers” was the theme used by the United Nations Education, Scientific and Cultural Organisation (Unesco) for last year’s Unesco World Teachers’ Day celebration. Its intention to uphold, evaluate, and value the role of teachers and academics in general is worthy of attention.

Also, there is a dire need for monitoring and evaluating the existing education system and its practices, be it at schools or higher learning institutions, which have caused many to suffer in silence.

I believe that we have local talents that could contribute to the development and betterment of our own education system.

No doubt, collaboration with external experts is important but we must put first our trust in our local experts.

Also, the act of screening and weeding out corrupted leaders at all level of administrations is indeed most welcomed, and it is deemed necessary that the Education Ministry and the Higher Education Ministry should not be excluded. -Mkini