Forum: Character should be central to definition of educational success
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I refer to the article “Character counts as much as grades, Desmond Lee tells students”
This in no way diminishes the value of academic achievement and success, but recognises that academic performance or grades alone do not determine the ability of a person to thrive in life. The aim of education should be to teach students the cognitive and socio-emotional skills needed to thrive in an evolving global landscape.
In many real-world situations, emotional intelligence, ethical decision-making, resilience and empathy shape how individuals lead, collaborate, and contribute meaningfully to society. A person of strong character – even if not academically outstanding – often inspires, uplifts, and makes a mark for himself in society.
Subjects like Character and Citizenship Education should not be viewed as peripheral, but as central to our definition of educational success. They offer opportunities for students to reflect on values, engage with difference and develop the moral courage to act for the common good.
Likewise, exposure to the arts plays an essential role in nurturing empathy, reflective thinking and cultural awareness among students.
Character is what gives education its purpose and moral weight. It shapes who we become as human beings and how we move through this world.
G. Lakshmanan
