Counselling: Education to compliment career paths

Teachers guide students in selecting courses according to interest.

ISLAMABAD:

“Career Guidance for Students Entering O levels,” a presentation, by the teachers of Khaldunia high school was held on Saturday, for students and parents. The history teacher Hajira started the presentation with the much-needed career advice to the teens who are about to embark on a crucial phase of their education. “Critical thinking, problem solving skills and developing learning skills are a must for all career paths, for whatever careers students may decide to chose,” she said. It was an informative session to help students in making informed career choices.

“There are some kids who will pick up anything. Like deemak (termites) they will read and go through everything they get their hands on,” said Hajira, “The passion for learning is essential to a solid education.” She also stressed the importance of a diverse education and encouraged students to take a wide variety of courses. “Some of the most successful people are multi-faceted.”

She explained that O-levels offer a range of around 30 subjects, out of which 6 are compulsory: Pakistan studies, English language, Urdu language and literature, Islamic studies, mathematics and science. Teachers of each academic discipline took turns providing details to the audience about their respective subjects. Hajira highlighted the importance of information sciences and mathematics in inculcating rational thinking. She attributed the study of history and literature to development of critical thinking skills among students and “a higher order of rational thinking”. She added, “Don’t strive for mediocrity; strive for excellence.”

Nadia Akhtar, a math teacher of the school, said it was essential to start studying math at the beginning of a child’s development for best results, it also being a universal language. “I hope everybody will take Math at some point,” she said.

The parents at the ceremony were listening attentively to the presentations and in the end had questions of their own. The most voiced concern by parents was when children flunked or performed badly and the subjects were not chosen according to their aptitude and interest. “I think this is very informative,” said Mrs Mir, a concerned parent, “and it’s a good thing they [the school] are giving this presentation because at the end of the day the children will be deciding what subjects they want to take.”

Published in The Express Tribune, May 8^th, 2011.