Colombo (AsiaNews) - Freeing schools in Sri Lanka from politics and bureaucracy, instead of seeking uniformity, developing and enhancing the specific skills of each child. Giving parents back their role in their children’s education. These are some of the country's biggest challenges according to Fr. Travis Gabriel, Rector of the Catholic boys school St.. Peter's college. On the occasion of the 78th annual school’s award day, 15 February in Colombo, the priest has called for a reform of the education system that values the potential of each student and allows for teachers initiative and experimentation.
"The state monopoly in education - says the priest –means that the school is another bureaucratic enterprise". According to Father Gabriel instead an effective school reform must first give the parents total freedom to choose schools for their children. He explains: "Education is a powerful tool for improving knowledge and experience, and promotes the way for rapid economic, social, cultural and spiritual development. Some studies show a correlation between education and economic growth: an indication that a well-trained workforce leads to better productivity. In this sense - continued the rector - the primary goal of education is to contribute to human capital of the nation. "This is why Sri Lanka needs a school system that can produce a skilled, industrious and enterprising workforce.
In concluding his address, Fr. Gabriel points out, therefore, that education in Sri Lanka has to adapt to international trends. By focusing on those aspects that tomorrow will be more employable in the world of work: science courses, business, arts, humanities, social science and business management; English as a first language, so as to widen the spectrum of communication for the children.
