The Importance of Parental Involvement in Education
The Director of the Forpoh Vocational Training Institute in Grand Kru County, Gabriel S. Tidoe, has emphasized the critical role that parents and guardians play in ensuring that Liberia can meet the educational standards of other countries in the region. His message was delivered during the 34th Thanksgiving Service of the Doyle Goodspeed Christian Academy in the Township of Caldwell.
Tidoe highlighted the need for active parental involvement in their children’s education, stating that it goes beyond simply enrolling them in school or paying tuition fees. He encouraged parents to engage with their children’s learning by reviewing their notes and maintaining regular communication with teachers. This kind of engagement, he argued, is essential for fostering a supportive learning environment.
Education as a Transformative Tool
According to Tidoe, education is a powerful tool that equips individuals with knowledge, skills, values, and experiences. These elements not only help individuals improve their lives but also enable them to contribute positively to society. He stressed that education is not limited to basic literacy and numeracy. Instead, it plays a vital role in shaping daily life, influencing how people interact, work, and live within their communities.
He explained that education affects various aspects of behavior, including how individuals walk, talk, cook, greet others, play, eat, sleep, sew, and dress. These everyday actions are shaped by the values and knowledge acquired through education, making it an integral part of personal and societal development.
The Role of Home in Education
Tidoe emphasized that education begins at home, where parents serve as the first teachers and children are their first students. He encouraged families to embrace informal education and vocational training, which can empower individuals to become self-reliant. Non-formal education, such as adult literacy programs, vocational institutes, and community workshops, can be just as valuable as formal schooling. These opportunities provide practical skills that can lead to better employment and economic stability.
Education as a Weapon Against Ignorance
In his speech, Tidoe described education as a weapon against ignorance and misinformation. He noted that these factors can lead to poor decision-making, missed opportunities, and harmful consequences. By promoting critical thinking, education enables individuals to analyze information, make informed decisions, and solve problems effectively. This ability to think critically allows people to contribute meaningfully to their communities and societies.
Moreover, Tidoe highlighted that education teaches values and morals. It helps individuals develop the character and knowledge necessary to foster positive behavior and create stronger, more cohesive communities. Through education, individuals gain the tools needed to build a better future for themselves and those around them.
Celebrating Educational Achievements
The event also marked a significant milestone for the Doyle Goodspeed Christian Academy, as it celebrated the graduation of twelve students from 6th to 7th grade and ten students from K-2 to 1st grade. This celebration underscored the importance of education and the achievements of students who have successfully completed their respective academic levels.
As the conversation around education continues, Tidoe’s message serves as a reminder of the collective responsibility to support and invest in the future of the next generation. By prioritizing education and fostering a culture of learning, communities can create lasting change and progress.
