American ambassador Evelyn Teegen emphasized the significant impact that leaders, parents, and educators have in shaping the character of future generations during her speech at Lautoka Teachers College. Addressing over 200 students on College Day, Ms. Teegen highlighted the importance of understanding and appreciating cultural heritage as a pathway to developing individualism.
She encouraged students to explore various cultures, including those of ethnic Fijians, Indians, Chinese, Africans, and Europeans. “Examining diversity produces strength and conviction in the richness of one’s own culture, whatever it may be,” she stated.
Ms. Teegen acknowledged that the world is moving towards more peaceful coexistence through the acceptance of differences. She urged future educators to instill strong values in their students while fostering respect for diversity. “Your responsibility as a teacher is to develop those human potentials, allowing new ideas to be embraced without fear of losing individual values,” she remarked, emphasizing the dual challenge of retaining personal identity while respecting others.
She noted that students would face significant changes over time and stressed the importance of preparing them to navigate these transformations effectively. “Inspiring the need for hard work and perseverance is part of your assignment,” she added, explaining that teachers provide essential tools for knowledge acquisition, discipline, and the capacity to enact change.
The demand for capable leaders in the future is increasingly critical, according to Ms. Teegen, who recognized the unique challenges that come with the teaching profession. She encouraged the trainees to actively engage with their communities as advocates for education, especially when financial constraints threaten its status.
“You will need to remind your friends and neighbors that a society has no greater resources than that of an educated individual,” she advised. She stressed the importance of collaboration with families in the educational process, advocating for a supportive home environment conducive to studying.
Ms. Teegen pointed to the necessity of parent involvement in education, noting that parent-teacher associations could be a vital pathway to gaining support. She suggested proactive outreach efforts by teachers, such as phone calls or notes, to invite parents to participate in classroom activities.
In conclusion, she reiterated the need for parents to take an active interest in their children’s education, as this involvement is crucial for their success in school.