What part of the Philippine education system is succeeding and which part of it is failing? Because of the pandemic, the whole world was forced to stop operating normally, and one of the most affected was the education system, with teachers and students adapting to a new mode of learning. Things are only starting to go back to normal, with some schools holding in-person and hybrid classes again.

For students’ struggles, learning remotely was just the tip of the iceberg.

Mental health is an issue that the education system continues to fail to address. The demands of the academic curriculum are just one of the things students need to face. Sometimes, the requirements for each subject become too overwhelming.

Sadly, it often happens that adults invalidate student complaints about stress and pressure. But these can come from different factors: socialization issues, lack of teacher-student communication, family problems, bullying and learning difficulties. We students are not asking for institutions to construct a flawless system; what we are asking is for you to listen. Listening is the first step, the next one is acting upon anything that has to be addressed.

Empathy

Decisions affecting the education system can either be for the benefit of the future generations or a burden to the economy. It is not a good idea to see students as mere products for companies to hire—it is important to have empathy for them and to treat them as living individuals who pick up knowledge at their own pace.

There is a toxic culture of competitiveness in the education system. It isn’t a healthy motive for learning.

The institution has the power to produce more productive and motivated learners if only to apply strategic ideas into learning. We can adapt modern schemes by learning from other countries. Making schools a safe space for students can create a community of free thinkers where they can be themselves.

Treating teachers better is essential. A well-paid educator can be motivated to bring more inspiration into the classroom.

The case of underpaid teachers must be addressed by the government first. One cannot expect a person to do well if they’re not rewarded for their efforts.

Another issue is marginalization. A lot of students live in remote areas that do not receive the necessary resources. These are needs that must be fulfilled by the government, as every child has the right to education. The access to quality education is an urgent issue that must be addressed. —CONTRIBUTED