Education in mission schools brings hope to the poor and weak

Feb 07, 2020

JOHOR BAHRU: The Mission Authorities are the founders of the school, as well as the registered owners of the land and buildings.

Malaysian Canossian Schools Coordinator, Sr Mary Tay, said this in her opening remarks at the halfday Seminar on Mission Schools at the Canossian Oasis in Kluang, December 14.

Present were 85 members of the Board of Governors, Board of Managers, principals, religious and priests. Also present was Bishop Bernard Paul.

Speaking on Ethos, Character & Traditions of Missions School, Sr Tay said education is for everyone irrespective of race, religion or social-economic status.

She explained that the composition of students and teaching-staff reflects the multi-ethnic character of the country.

She said the ideal of unity is put into practice among all and, there fore, discriminatory and divisive practices are avoided. “Mutual respect for one another’s differences and culture is inculcated,” she said.

Sr Tay made it clear that education in mission schools brings hope to the poor and weak, adding there is, “Care, concern and compassion for the least, the last and the lost.”

Therefore, she says, it gives special attention and care to those suffering from any aspect of poverty: financial, moral, cultural, spiritual, cognitive, physical or emotional.

She clearly emphasised that each student is a unique individual made in the image of God and endowed with distinctive character, aptitudes and abilities and is worthy of love, respect and acceptance.

She said it is important for us to study the student’s character and temperament, adding that, “What is good for one is not necessarily good for another.”

Sr Tay made it clear that each student should be nurtured and developed as a whole person – spiritually, intellectually, emotionally, physically and socially, to his or her fullest potential.

She pointed out that mission schools possess a culture of “dis cipline with love” and the benefit of discipline lies in the formation of the heart.

Speaking on Discipline with Love, Sr Tay said, “Being proactive is taking preventive measures, treating root causes and not reacting superficially to problems and issues.”

Therefore, she said, discipline is inculcated with appropriate punishment, creating an awareness of right and wrong.

She stressed that this takes place within a context of constant encouragement, affirmation and love.

On Passion and Perseverance, Sr Tay emphasised that teachers in mission schools, led by the head teachers are driven by the spirit of dedication and sacrifice.

She added that teachers must work with full commitment to guide the boys and girls under their care with charity and patience.

On Human Dignity, she said there must be care for the marginalised students such as feeding the poor and home visits.

She also called on the Board of Governors/managers to be active in the school, adding that, “there must be active participation of alumni."