Let us face it. Ours is a world that has changed a lot. It is riddled with things unheard of in the past. The waves of change, modernly termed innovations are of unimaginable magnitude that they have fundamentally reshaped our concerns and priorities. Every change happens at a level of unprecedented speed and stimulation, leaving us with no choice but to cope, adjust, keep at par, fine-tune; otherwise, we face gradual extinction.
And BulPriSa is not spared. BulPriSa must welcome and face this challenge of change. The 21st-century education requires some intelligent revisions in the curriculum, some upgrading in teaching approaches, modernization of learning facilities and retooling of classroom staff. Our academic world has indeed been influenced to a large extent, by media and technology. Students today are different from their Baby Boomer counterparts. Kids in the classroom are no longer miniature versions of adults. Their brains are wired that they can easily access and manage information in a snap of a finger. This emerging phenomenon demands that we in BulPriSa in particular, and in the academe in general, modify, innovate and make relevant the educational service we provide in order to engage our students who belong to the iPad generation. Since a key component of the 21st-century education is technology, today’s generation of students should be fluent not only in language and numeracy but also in technology. This change in the educational landscape is a challenge we need to respond to if we, in private education, are to prevail, remain relevant and impact a difference.
Another challenge of change BulPriSa needs to face is the degradation in the Filipino’s moral character. Alarming is the way, both the young and the old behave in the present wave of time. Modern technology, social media, family disunity and efforts for economic advancements, through all means possible, — all these have taken a toll on the morality of the Filipino. Love of God, self-discipline, sense of family, justice, servant leadership- values we, Filipinos used to hold dear are now unheard of. In this matter, the school as partner of the home, has to play a critical and an aggressive role in reshaping the morality of the Filipinos.
BulPriSa should not be content in equipping the young with the necessary technical skills, knowledge and competencies. Their education should be fortified with essential values that will help them discern intelligently and make wise decisions. Yes, modernization is inevitable; it is truly imperative, but not at the expense of our intact moral fiber. Yes, we face the challenge of change, but not in exchange of impairing our dignity and honor. Yes, we respond to change, but not with complete disregard for the true essence of man- values.
We cannot effect change overnight. We cannot innovate alone. We cannot turn this world into one that is prime and ideal in a snapshot. What truly matters is the first step towards change we BulPriSans have to take. We make change happen right here, right now.
By Mrs. Vilma C. Dela Cruz
Mrs. Dela Cruz has been the coach of oration delegates. Every year, MDSF brings home the gold award for this event.
