Every September, kids and young adults around the world return to school, some with excitement, and some with apprehension.



Even before the summer end, advertisers launched campaigns to attract parents and children with school merchandise, school supplies, stationery, and clothing – but not toys or games! In my youth, going back to school was exciting – or not, depending on friends, teachers and school environment. And my children, predictably, follow the same pattern – friends and teachers play a major role in the school experience.

 

 

In Ajman, basic education started in the 1930's with a curriculum of Quran, math and basic learning. The first elementary school  was founded in 1937, and a full grade school was established in 1958 with 120 male students. The girl’s school was established in 1967. Prior to that and in the early days of the United Arab Emirates, Kuwait supported many schools, teachers and curriculum with books on different subjects. But today, Ajman -- the smallest emirate in the UAE -- has more than 80,000 students enrolled in a total of 65 public and privates schools.



School must be a place of excitement, where learning is fun and joyful! This autumn I had the opportunity to observe closely a Boston kindergarten and school up to Grade 6. I was impressed with their unique focus on 3-S pillars: student, school and society. Effective communication between these three pillars is a community responsibility and sustainability. In addition, parents connect with other parents through their children’s education, activities and birthday celebrations. In each grade, there are classes where higher grades mentor lower grades for different educational and creative skills.  I was impressed by how activities and school programs take advantage of the entire city of Boston, public library, playground, and game field.



A golden question to raise here: why is education so valued around the world?


It is very important in Japan, as I discovered as an exchange student there in the late 90ies . After the Second World War, Japan focused on education and law as a cornerstone to rebuilding their society, culture and technology. What excited me the most was how education was based on research concept and solving real world problems; not just in the classroom, but in labs operating 24/7.



In Scandinavian countries like Sweden and Finland, major investments are made in education and health. Their technology is fascinating: less manpower and high efficiency.



A few weeks ago I met a wise man,  the founder of first Islamic banking in the world, Hajj Saeed Lootah. His passion and investment was in education and economy. He created a great living legacy for young adults in the country.

 

Last week, I met a 20-yr young man from Kuwait who is studying finance in Bentley University. This summer he went with his father to the Olympic Games in London. Watching the competition, he asked his father, “What is the difference between gold medalists and us?” His father replied, “Only discipline and practice!”. Inspired, the young man made a promised to himself and to his father to achieve a gold medal in a college sport. And his chosen sport was rowing! His story made me reflect about the connection between education and moral character.



I view education as a gateway to personal growth, development and maturity. Seeking knowledge is a valuable tradition in our culture. An old Arabic proverb says, ‘Seek knowledge even as far as China’.  Seeking knowledge is a never-ending cycle from cradle to grave. Knowledge is a guide to sustained resources and innovation. Thus, education uses many tools such as guidance, study, research, exploration, exercise, memories, creativity and innovation. Knowledge and skills are the drivers to change our actions. Passion transforms our actions into super actions.



​(click here to read Part 2)