self identity

Tolerance, Self¡VIdentity, and Class Room Practices

The national education policy is a blueprint to foster inter-racial harmony and tolerance. The assumption is that if we can instil these values in the hearts and minds of the younger generation (most of whom are in the schools) than we can build a future society that will not self-destruct due to narrow self interest and prejudices. Once again, this responsibility is put on the shoulders of teachers. Instead of viewing it as an unwanted burden, teachers should feel honoured that the nation has categorically put the trust of ensuring the future of the country in their hands. This is indeed a powerful position to be in. The question is are teachers aware of this?
Although, tolerance and racial harmony should be inculcated from the very beginning of schooling, it actually becomes a serious issue only at the secondary level. At the primary level, children are just children. They play, fight and get back together. They seldom hold gru...