I was invited to the International Education Colloquium in Kuching, Sarawak from 4 - 7 May 2008. It's a closed function where local and international educationist gather and share ideas, concepts, experiences on the new assessment scheme. I was invited as a forum speaker talking on how ICT can play a role in the new scheme.
I must say that I'm very fortunate to be invited (after I open my mouth to go as participant !) and join the colloquium. I have first hand information and exposure on how a new education system being formulated. And it's great honor to be part of it (hopefully it will transform to the better).
At one time, I felt small as well. All speakers are well-known educationist with doctorate and professorship except for me. It's tensed when I need to prepare my biodata to be narrated by MC. However, at pre-dinner drink party, Dato' IAB told me not to feel that way. "You're an expert in that field." he said. :D
At dinner, there's video clip of Sinaran Ilmu composed by LY and lyrics by Baiduri, sang by Asha Malik as departure gift to the respected Dr Khod. I've teary eyes listening to the words and looking at the clips. It's not like I'd never seen him again, but humbled at the way recognition and respect shown to such a wonderful man upon his retirement. Another slide presentation featuring his bibliography also touched my heart. And that nite, dinner over by 11 pm or so. Chat with Shidi at the lobby till 1.30 am when Dr Khod joined us for discussion that last for 2 hours. It's very trying to be ontime on the 7th May at 8 am for the Group discussion summary and closing by Deputy DG MOE.
In the group discussion summary, I commented about teaching profession perceived as low class profession. Being the last option by students applying to higher education, whom basically don't have passion for teaching, thus producing a lower grade teachers and eventually lower grade products from schools that created all the problems we have in the country now. My recommendation was to uplift the profession, make it professional career with better salary & scheme comparable to lecturers. Make an opening for professional out there to join education system as teachers as what being practiced in universities.
My comment was responded quite aggresively by rep from School Division saying that teachers is the one that teach the future leaders. Applicants for teaching institution now is only the cream-of-the-cream and not anybody-else-can-go kinda thing. Dato' IAB defended me (he also introduced me as ICT expert to Dato' Deputy before I gave my comments) saying that it's not my perception but the public as I heard. When I tried to apogize, Dato' IAB told me there's no need to apologize.
Prior to closing address, few people came to me to say that what I said is right. KPLI for example is for resolve unemployed graduates issues. When Dato' Deputy gave her closing remarks by answering to the comments and sharing the latest movements and directions in the ministry, she also commented on my comments. She told me not to have heart-feeling as Pn Rodz is known to be defensive on her teachers. However, more has been done and still coming in improving the perception. There's a 'Super Principle' scheme that their salary is the same as Divisional Directors currently.
Nevertheless, she shared with me on her way for lunch, that more needs to be done to improve the education system. Not only the students, but also teachers, programs, syllabus, assessment...a transformation is required if not reformation. Am hoping to see it happening, and greatly involve to make sure it'll happen to the betterment of future generations.
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