The Arena

"Singapore's education system breeds elitism."

that was the topic of the debate between Raffles Institution and United World College on The Arena that i just caught on Channel 5. R.I. being the propostion, and UWC being the opposition.

i thought both schools did a pretty good job in trying to prove their points. many times, i agreed with both teams when they made their stands. or at least, i understood what they were trying to say. but then again, i'm not a worthy judge so who am i to comment anyway? but really, do I personally feel that Singapore's education system breeds elitism?

perhaps.

it is true that the government is now coming up with ideas and ways to help students cultivate their talents and skills in sports and the arts, other than just the academics, like how it used to be. yes, some students who do not excel in their studies may possess creative brain juices in their heads and i think the government recognises that. nice.

we're all equal right now, whether you're an ITE, poly or a JC student, because you're being taught to excel in what you're good at- so says the government. i agree with that wholeheartedly. but then there's that point where the proposition stated that the better schools get special scholarships for their students, whereas the students of not-so-elite institutes*cough* dont get as many opportunities. and that is just one of the many points that they stated. and the many points that we can see right now. so...does that mean that elitism is silently breeding from within?

oh well.*shrugs* but you know, regardless of how much effort the government puts in to promote equalisation among people with different educational statuses, we're still being defined based on our academic levels at the end of the day. yes, times are different, and many people have broadened their minds and changed their mindsets. hence i wouldnt say that EVERYONE defines us that way, but the sad truth is, part of the (singapore)society still does. a stubborn mindset is hard to be changed.

society has a strange way of looking at you, doesnt it?

alright, my entry doesnt mean much because HONESTLY, i am not exactly the brightest person to be making comments(or assumptions). but this is just my opinion. agree or disagree, it's your call. just think about it, it's a good question to think about on a tuesday night, no? :)

ok. time to watch some cartoons now.