PUTRAJAYA – The Education Ministry has assured that it will not compromise on issues of racism, gangsterism, and extremism as part of its seven core initiatives to address current challenges.
Education Minister Fadhlina Sidek said her ministry will focus on the character-building of students to help combat negative elements such as bullying, sexual harassment, and vandalism.
“Among our focus is to stress the aspect of character building. We want these kids to grow up in a safe and harmonious environment.
“So there is no compromise on issues of bullying, gangsterism, racism, and extremism. We will take the necessary steps to make sure that the students are safe and will work with relevant agencies such as the police,” she told a press conference today.
Fadhlina also said the ministry will emphasise resolving issues surrounding multidimensional poverty among students as another part of its core initiatives.
On the teaching profession, Fadhlina also said she will look into reducing red tape to ensure there is a direct and transparent line of communication between teachers and the ministry to immediately address critical issues.
The ministry’s other core initiatives include looking into addressing the “lost generation”, focusing on the welfare of teachers, upgrading dilapidated schools, and increasing digital accessibility in schools.
To facilitate these efforts, Fadhlina also announced that the ministry will reactivate the national education advisory council.
While no names have yet to be nominated to the council, Fadhlina said she and her deputy Lim Hui Ying’s priority in coming weeks is to conduct meetings with various stakeholders to better understand the challenges in the education system. – The Vibes, December 15, 2022
