Sunday, February 27, 2011

It's The End?

This acronym "ITE" has been used to interpreted as "It's The End" for a looooooooooooong time... If I remember correctly, it was first talked about in Jack Neo's movie. Oh yes, only Singaporean would come up with such sacrastic, saddist description for the abbreviation for "Institute of Techical Education". The institute provides education for students (around the age of 16-18) who are less academically-inclined but benefits from hands-on programmes. In particular, a large number of the students are graduands from the Normal (Technical) stream.

I've no idea, in this globe, how many education systems started streaming learners at the age fo 12 and hence, that would largely dictates the 'specialised' system that they would go through... although some might end in the same destination, as those who are deemed to be more academically inclinded.

In fact, in Singapre, no matter what, meritocracy is highly still emphasized in our education system - that's why we are so used to use terms like "academically-inclined" to describe our learners. And of course, those who have demonstrated that they are more academically-inclined stand an advantage in the education system here. And certainly, this created lots of stress to the learners as well as their parents! Ok, to some extent, also their teachers! Well, it's just like wild fire that spreads so easily and quickly! It makes life much more competitive and competition begins since young. Sometimes, I just wonder, the young learners were 'automatically enrolled' into the competition. It's "By Default". They did not ask for it. So, this is 'life'?

Indeed, it's pretty sad that, in this society, people in general still look up to those who are academically strong; and often neglect reaction of the other group of learners. People, here, I mean, the general public, the general community; unfortunately, I think, also some educators! That makes me wonder...

On the other hand, I think, not so many of us, in particular, those who serve in the secondary schools, are aware that, many of these less academically-inclinded students did very well (in post secondary education... when they go to ITE)... and definitely, I think, the key to success comes through their strong determination and perseverence! I believe that this is something that many of their parents would not have anticipated that their children have gone that far! Look around in polytechnic, I think it's not difficult to 'hit' a few graduads who came through the Normal (Technical) stream, and more are moving towards university, too! In fact, it's heartening to hear that some of the first couple of batches of N(T) students even completed their university education... and at least one is planning to pursue her master degree!

Well Done!

No comments: