The Education Ministry should reconsider the administrative directive for schools to hold a “full solidarity week” in schools in support for the Palestinian cause, but instead find other ways to raise awareness on this important issue including focusing more on educating our children more on spirit of compassion, respect for humanity and respect for one another regardless race, religion or background.
The Palestinian cause is an important matter and its not just a cause for any single religion or people group, but it is a cause for humanity, justice and freedom.
While we stand in solidarity with those that has been oppressed and discriminated in this tragic war especially the Palestinians and all innocent civilians tragically lost in this conflict, we should be cautious in dragging this complicated conflict into school at the risk of instigating extreme hate and condemnation against one another, which does not help in this matter.
Hatred never cease by hatred, but hatred cease by compassionate love.
Many Members of Parliaments have raised our concern with the Education Minister and the Deputy and we believe this should have been discussed further with the MPs to ensure any initiative no matter how noble the intention is, should be properly implemented so that it will not cause any unintended consequences and sow division especially among our students.
I also suggest that the parents and PIBGs are also engaged and involved in the decision whether this directive should be implemented or how they want it implemented as they have a right over their children over any matter.
Even with good intentions, its important we ensure it is properly implemented, and more importantly taught properly to now sow hate or cause division, but build compassion, love and understanding among one another.