American ambassador Evelyn Teegen emphasized the crucial role that leaders, parents, and teachers play in shaping the future generation that will drive change. She addressed over 200 students at the Lautoka Teachers College during a College Day event, highlighting that developing individualism involves an appreciation of one’s cultural heritage.
Teegen encouraged students to explore various cultures, including Fijian, Indian, Chinese, African, and European. She asserted that understanding diversity strengthens one’s conviction in the value of their own culture. “Examining diversity produces strength and conviction that there is richness to one’s own culture, whatever it may be,” she stated.
She noted that the world is advancing towards more harmonious times by recognizing and appreciating differences. Teegen urged the future educators to instill in their students a strong sense of personal values while also valuing and respecting others’ cultures.
The ambassador described the role of teachers as pivotal in nurturing human potential, stating, “Your responsibility as a teacher is to develop those human potentials in such a way that new ideas may be embraced without fear that the values of individualism will be eroded.” She expressed that balancing one’s identity with respect for others’ values would be a critical measure of their education.
Teegen indicated that students would undergo significant changes in their lives, stressing the importance of preparing them to adapt to these changes while also fostering a work ethic and perseverance. “What you are giving to your students are the ‘tools’ to gain further knowledge, to develop discipline and the strength to be implementors of change,” she stated.
The need for strong leaders to meet future demands has become increasingly vital, according to her. Teegen acknowledged the immense challenges faced by educators, asserting that their profession carries great responsibility.
She advised the future teachers to maintain an active presence in their communities and serve as advocates for education, particularly in times when financial priorities may undermine the support for learning. “You will need to remind your friends and neighbours that a society has no greater resources than that of an educated individual,” she asserted.
Teegen highlighted the necessity of collaboration with students’ families to enhance education. She cautioned that parents could either support or hinder their children’s education and stressed the importance of thoughtful communication with parents to foster their involvement in their children’s academic lives.
In alignment with the remarks made by the Minister for Education, Filipe Bole, she noted the significance of a home environment that supports educational endeavors. Teegen mentioned that fostering “quiet time” for studying, along with parents’ engagement in their children’s education, is essential for success. She pointed out that parent-teacher associations could be one effective method to strengthen this partnership.
She suggested that direct outreach from teachers, such as phone calls or notes inviting parents to engage with the classroom, is a vital step in building this collaborative relationship.