Be nationalistic, patriotic but not blind
Published on: Sunday, February 23, 2020
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One cannot deny the fact that technological advancements are built upon the “basic blocks” that are structured in English.
The government should not be distracted by naysayers who fear the unknown and cast doubts about novel and bold ideas.
Teething problems will be inevitable whenever new policies are implemented, but throwing in the towel even before attempting new things will surely scuttle all forms of exploration.
A successful and systematic method of scuttling is by letting in fear to take control of any decision-making processes.
Being nationalistic and patriotic must not blind us to the capable qualities of other civilisations, especially technical advancements.
We need to accept the fact that although all cars run on four wheels, there are some cars that are capable of going up steep slopes faster.
The occupants of such cars will reach the summit earlier.
Those who are resisting the use of English in the teaching of Maths and Science should reflect on this analogy.
We need to embrace a broader view and outlook in order to help our society reach the global platform faster.
As the world is moving rapidly in artificial intelligence (AI) and digital technology, we need to embrace fearlessly the building blocks upon which they are founded.
These building blocks are undoubtedly Science and Maths. We also need to think about global employment opportunities in this era of the Fourth Industrial Revolution. Flip-flopping will not help our nation to reach the desired destination within the stipulated time.
If the Wright brothers had waited for the right conditions by “treading carefully”, then they wouldn’t have invented the first flying machines that became model for our modern aeroplane.
MJ
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