From a perspective of South Asia there is fierce competition in the academic system for Pakistan and many other South Asian countries.
In addition to parents, there is a strong competitive culture among pupils.
The competition between parents (especially mothers) to see whos child is performing how has become quite an obsession which plays havoc on the child and the childs personal development and mental state.
The ranking Culture, 1st 2nd and 3rd place from an early age
Children in the South Asian sub continent have to face the ranking system (in most schools)
The top three places in the class are highly coveted, and individuals who place well receive a tonne of praise and credit. Despite appearing to be a straightforward method of rewarding academic achievement, this strategy frequently has the opposite impact from what is intended.
The pressure cooker whistle
When children are placed under extreme pressure, it can effect them adversely.
This constant pressure can develop the fear of failing rather than being inspired to learn and wanting to perform the best to their ability.
Children go through alot of stress because they feel that their worth is merely a grade which sums up how bright they are.
In order to achieve good results, this type of learning environment suppresses creativity and critical thinking in favour of memorisation and rote learning.
Rivalry
In many homes, the rivalry reaches beyond the children.
(As mentioned above) Mothers in particular often quarrel silently about whose child is performing better academically.
This rivalry may arise from the desire to achieve personal goals through their children and adhere to social norms. Conversations at social gatherings typically revolve around academic achievements, which reinforces the notion that a child’s success is a direct reflection of the parents’ worth.
How children are taught in the West
In the extreme opposite, the west put emphasis on the whole development of the child and also work on character development, self love, alongside many other elements.
They are pushed to pursue their interests and abilities and are recognized as an individual and not under some ranking system of 1st 2nd or 3rd.
There is absolutely no fear of being judged and children are alot happier and are under the least pressure.
Much needed Adjustments
We absolutely admit that the education system in the South of Asia needs an exteme makeover.
Let’s see why;
- Too much stress brings on immense pressure which can then develop into mental health issues such as depression and anxiety, which has in the past led to many children commiting suicide. Remember the 12 year old boy who hung himself some time ago in a town in pakistan?
Like so, there have been many incidents over the years.
- Things should become balanced to take off the strain on both parents and their children.
- Complete Development to help child explore skills like sports and arts as these are crucial for their overall well being.
- Inherently encourage children to become more street smart and how they can become more focused on self development and growth instead of only focusing on what they learn at school.
- Teacher and Parent meetings should be held so parents can be made aware of how their attitudes have a detrimental effect on their child.
They should be given speaking sessions on how to bring out their child’s unique abilities and not just concentrate on academics only.
Conclusion!
The whole education system in our region desperately needs revaluation.
The ranking system which is heavily ingrained culturely in the system, is it really needed?
Why can’t our children all be treated equally? Is it really necessary to indirectly humiliate those who don’t make it to the top 3 in class?
While its obvious that all parents want their children to do exceptionally well when it comes to academics but it’s also their responsibility as parents and also the schools systems to make the child comfortable in their learning environment so that they’d want to learn and not be afraid of failure.
If we endeavour to build an inclusive and supportive educational system, children can grow up to be well-rounded, resilient, and self-assured individuals. It’s time for lawmakers, educators, and parents to come together and demand a change that prioritises kids’ whole growth and wellbeing over just their academic performance.
FAQs
Because it can create the fear of failure in children and unhealthy competition between them.
Fear of failure! Children can become depressed anxious and some have even ended up committing suicide.
Their child may experience extreme pressure, resulting in low confidence and a damaged child and parental relationship.
In Western educational systems, children are generally encouraged to explore a variety of interests and talents as part of an emphasis on holistic development.
Holistic development is just as important as these children learn how to balance healthily their academics, social skills creativity and mature well too.
Lesson the stress full stop!
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Useful Links
Here are some Useful links that could be relevant for the article:
UNICEF South Asia – Information on the impact of the education system on children’s mental health in South Asia: UNICEF – Education and Mental Health in South Asia
World Health Organization (WHO) – Details on mental health issues and their link to academic pressure: WHO – Mental Health and Academic Pressure
Harvard Graduate School of Education – Analysis on the differences between Western and South Asian educational approaches: Harvard – Comparative Education Systems
The Conversation – Article discussing the ranking system in South Asian education and its psychological impact: The Conversation – Ranking System and Mental Health
Global Education Monitoring Report – Insights into the holistic development approach in Western education systems: GEM Report – Holistic Education Approaches
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