Education and grades.

EDUCATION, we are constantly reminded and taught, is the key to success. But what is education? Is education about rote-learning, grades, getting a better job, or is it about the ability to explore new ideas and think critically and independently? Is it about preparing children for a specific career or teaching them lifelong values and discipline?

Unfortunately, our education system, coupled with parental and peer pressure, discourages students from developing problem-solving and analytical skills. Instead, the students are encouraged to focus on grades and getting high-paid jobs.

Both parents and teachers convey the same message to the children; getting good grades takes precedence over everything else. Relatives and neighbours are no different. They constantly ask students about their grades and, when the time comes, when they will acquire a decent job.

Another sad aspect is that our education system concentrates more on the institutions' prestige and reputation rather...