Consider the subject Global Perspectives for public schools
I READ with interest the article “Development of youth a govt priority, says PM” in The Star on July 9 (online at bit.ly/star_develop).
I am delighted and proud that the government has embarked on this Perdana Fellows programme and is continuing with its implementation, especially seeing the tremendous boost it has given the Fellows’ morale and how it gives recognition to young people’s contribution to society.
I was glad to read that, according to Prime Minister Tan Sri Muhyiddin Yassin, the development of the younger generation in all aspects, including in the area of human capital, is a priority of the government.
This Perdana Fellowship programme, through the attachment of Fellows at various ministries, will beyond doubt hone leadership skills and expose these young minds to policy matters and prepare them to be inclusive in areas involving the government’s future direction.
As an educator at an international school in Shah Alam, I strongly feel future Perdana Fellows could further benefit if they are exposed to the teaching of Global Perspectives in government schools at the upper secondary level.
This subject, offered as an O Level examination subject, exposes students to information skills, critical thinking, independent learning, collaboration and communication skills while using global topics and issues to practice these skills.
Through this subject, students get to discuss current global issues and do research and project work.
I find this subject very relevant to students’ development of critical thinking and especially so to future Perdana Fellows. I have been teaching this subject over the past few years and many international schools offer the subject.
I strongly believe our public school students can benefit from this subject too.
I hope the Education Ministry will consider this proposal and I am prepared to assist in any capacity building exercise.
As a civil servant who retired from the Prime Minister’s Department, I would like to contribute in any way I can.
MICHAEL S. ANTHONY Shah Alam