Transformative Education: Empowering Learners for the Future – by Sonia Kaur Rajbans

When we witness children overcoming adversity and achieving success despite challenging circumstances, it raises an important question:

“Is the education that our children receive, equally transformative?”

Education involves three primary stakeholders: teachers, learners, and parents. However, it has also become a profitable business for investors.

Many parents go to great lengths, taking loans or seeking financial assistance from family and friends, to provide their children with the best education possible. But in this cycle, parents must remember that they are the demanders. They have the power to demand quality education that aligns with their child’s holistic growth and development.

For an education system to be successful, it must enhance the learner’s ethical values, social skills, intrapersonal skills, and technical abilities while preserving their individuality. It should instill the resilience and determination necessary for learners to overcome challenges and succeed in life. In this process, parents play a crucial role through their parenting style, which should complement the educational experience.

However, in Kenya, many supposedly accredited international and CBC schools charge exorbitant fees for basic education. Basic education is the right of every child, and any education pursued after high school is an investment in their future. This investment can be sourced from parents, community funds, or even the child themselves. Basic education should equip learners with the confidence to pursue vocational or soft skills through shadowing, mentoring, and coaching opportunities before deciding on university education.

By allowing learners to take a minimum break of one year between high school and tertiary education, we can create a workforce that is more focused, passionate, and equipped with unique skills. This approach encourages universities, colleges, and training institutions to develop tailored programs and degrees, reducing unemployment rates. Employers will value practical skills over theoretical knowledge, leading to economic growth and technological advancements.

Education is transforming in various ways. When choosing a curriculum for your child, it is essential to assess their learning style, interests, and strengths. Schools should prioritize individualized learning and personal growth over documentation verification and entrance exams. The education system is evolving to focus on developing skills and competencies that are relevant to the demands of the 21st century and the changing global workforce. This includes upgrading teaching staff, digital devices, and software, as well as engaging in training programs to stay up to date.

Traditionally, certifications were sufficient for securing jobs, but employers now seek more than just a piece of paper. They look for employees who can apply their education to real-life scenarios, and demonstrate skills, competencies, and the right attitude for the job. Consequently, education is shifting towards competency-based curriculums that assess the practical application of knowledge.

Parents must actively participate in selecting the right school for their child, ensuring it aligns with their learning style and interests. Schools should also embrace inclusive learning and provide support for special needs learners. As the education system evolves, it is crucial for parents, educators, and educationists to collaborate and ensure students are prepared for the challenges of the 21st century.

The goal of education goes beyond imparting knowledge; it is about empowering learners with the skills and attitudes needed to navigate life and make a positive contribution to society. Parents, teachers, and learners must work together to create a supportive learning environment that nurtures creativity, critical thinking, and problem-solving skills. By doing so, we can equip learners with the competencies necessary to succeed in an ever-changing world.

Ultimately, educating our children is not just about investing in their future but also about fostering meaningful relationships with them. As parents, we need to be present, relevant, and fair, actively engaged in our child’s education. We should make choices that demonstrate our love for them and spend quality time with them during their formative years. Investing time, effort, and focus as a parent is essential for a child’s development and well-being. By being present, we can help our children become well-rounded individuals who can thrive in the world.

Education is a transformative journey that requires collaboration, commitment, and continuous evaluation. By prioritizing quality education, nurturing the whole child, and staying attuned to the evolving landscape, we can empower learners to reach their full potential and create a brighter future for all.

Article written by:

Sonia Kaur Rajbans