KEY to realising the Malaysian vision 2020 is very much dependent on the level of emphasis given to research and development in all areas.

In this regard, I concur with Prime Minister Datuk Seri Abdullah Badawi that creativity and innovation should be included in the school curriculum – “PM: Encourage creativity and innovation” (The Star, Nov 11)

It is indeed sad that our education system is very much examination-oriented. There is a false belief that a string of As is equivalent to being entrepreneurial or being innovative and creative.

Our schoolchildren are taught to memoriSe facts to pass examinations. We have not heard of any of our straight A students having developed anything new or a prototype that the nation can be proud of or contributed to the nation economically.

This clearly reflects the aping culture rather than an innovative culture that is predominant amongst us.

It was pointed out rightly by the Prime Minister, that the school is the best place to inculcate the culture of innovation and creativity.

I urge our educators and teachers to ingrain in children the love and passion for innovation.

For this to happen, I believe there is an urgent need for a paradigm shift on the part of our teachers, educators and parents.

There must be a shift in our mindset to be proactive, solution-driven and value-oriented.

Our children should be taught to be confident, to take responsibility and to develop trust. School should also aim at liberating talents and abilities.

The most successful societies are those that hold on to the old just as long as it is good and the new as soon as it is better.

This is the right mental attitude that we as a nation should have in our march towards a developed nation in 2020.

SEGAREN,
KUALA LUMPUR.

Excerpt from:

http://thestar.com.my/news/story.asp?file=/2008/11/13/focus/2529314&sec=focus

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