by Dr Qazi S Azher
Nurturing independent thought and creativity in our children is not solely about language choices; it is about creating an educational framework that respects and builds upon their identities.
Copying and cheating may yield short-term benefits, but the long-term consequences are detrimental to both individual growth and the broader economy. Education should not be solely focused on achieving high grades or passing examinations; its fundamental purpose is to grasp the core concepts underlying a subject and apply that knowledge in real-world scenarios.
When students engage in dishonest practices, they forfeit the opportunity to genuinely learn and develop critical thinking skills. This lack of understanding can lead to significant problems, as evident in sectors where foundational knowledge is crucial. For example, the alarming frequency of collapsing bridges and buildings exposes a systemic failure in engineering and construction education. If professionals in these fields lack a deep understanding of the principles they are supposed to apply, public infrastructure safety and integrity are compromised.
The absence of a solid educational foundation stifles innovation and problem-solving abilities, a troubling reality in today’s rapidly evolving world, which demands creative thinking and complex problem-solving. A robust educational framework is essential for fostering these skills, enabling students to become not only competent professionals but also engaged members of society.
Fortunately, the public aviation transportation industry, with its stringent safety standards and well-trained workforce, is not currently experiencing difficulties. Nevertheless, if we fail to address the underlying issues in our education system, we risk facing precarious situations in other critical sectors.
In essence, copying and cheating in educational contexts are symptoms of flawed educational policies. The rise of new technologies has seen plagiarism soar, eroding the integrity of learning. Many schools have become mere centres for rote memorization, prioritizing the regurgitation of textbook content over genuine understanding and inquiry-based learning. Despite the presence of digital tools, the essence of natural learning is often absent.
Project-based learning and activities that stimulate critical thinking and creativity are often relegated to the periphery. Instead of fostering an environment that encourages innovation, many educational systems prioritize standardized testing and conformity, stifling students’ intellectual curiosity. This approach leaves them ill-equipped to navigate a complex and rapidly changing world.
The importance of teaching in the mother tongue or local language cannot be overstated. When students learn in a language, they are comfortable with, they are more likely to grasp concepts deeply and engage meaningfully with educational material. Science and technology do not require a specific language; creativity and critical thinking are cognitive processes that can be developed in any language.
Historically, languages have evolved as the primary mediums of scientific discourse. In the medieval period, Arabic was the language of science, later supplanted by Latin. Today, a diverse range of languages contribute to scientific dialogue, including Finnish, French, Japanese, Chinese, Russian, and Hungarian, among others. However, many educational systems in countries like India remain entrenched in English, a legacy of colonial rule, following the educational designs laid out by figures such as Lord Macaulay. This perpetuates a cycle where true independence of thought and learning is never fully realized.
It is imperative that we critically evaluate and reform our educational policies to promote authentic learning experiences. A system that values creativity, critical thinking, and local languages must be created. Such changes are vital for cultivating a generation of thinkers and innovators who can contribute meaningfully to society and thrive in an increasingly interconnected world.
Independent thinking is a critical skill lacking in our society, essential for personal and societal growth. To clarify, our intention is not to oppose any language, but to advocate for the importance of using the mother tongue or local language as the primary medium of instruction. Research from numerous international studies consistently demonstrates that children learn best when concepts are introduced in a language, they are comfortable with, enhancing their understanding and fostering a deeper connection to their cultural identity.
Learning in one’s mother tongue enables richer cognitive engagement, as students can express themselves fully and grasp complex ideas more effectively. This approach creates an environment that encourages critical and creative thinking, rather than mere memorization. When students feel comfortable in their language, they participate actively in discussions, exploring new concepts with curiosity and confidence.
We fervently hope that our children are blessed with the right medium of instruction, one that fosters their cognitive development and nurtures their innate potential. Moreover, we pray for guidance (Hidaya) for parents, enabling them to make informed decisions about their children’s education. Parents must recognize the value of multilingual education and advocate for teaching methods that prioritize their children’s linguistic and cultural backgrounds.
Nurturing independent thought and creativity in our children is not solely about language choices; it is about creating an educational framework that respects and builds upon their identities. By prioritising the mother tongue/local language and integrating it into the learning process, we can empower the next generation to think creatively, and critically, and contribute positively to society.
Let us work together to promote educational practices that truly reflect the needs of our children and lay the groundwork for their success in an increasingly globalized world. Ultimately, we must prioritize a culture of genuine learning and intellectual curiosity, moving away from practices that encourage dishonesty. By doing so, we can ensure the long-term growth of individuals and the economic stability of our nation.
(The author is an Associate Clinical Professor at Michigan State University and serves as Chairperson of the Department of Pathology at Hurley Medical Centre in Flint, Michigan. He holds a Bachelor of Science, Bachelor of Education, and Doctor of Medicine, and is a Fellow of the College of American Pathologists (FCAP) and the American Society for Clinical Pathology (FASCP). Ideas are personal.)
