SHILLONG, Feb 21: In a bid to draw the attention of locals in Rangblang village on rising rate of school drop-outs, the Seng Samla Shnong Rangblang, South West Khasi Hills, conducted an awareness programme in Rangblang on the topic ‘Guidelines for drop-outs and educating parents’ at Pdeng Shnong Dorbar Hall on Saturday.
The awareness programme was attended by 40 children among other locals.
In his keynote address, president of the Seng Samla, Anthony lawphniaw, pointed out at the large number of school drop-outs in the area calling it a matter of great concern. This trend has adverse impacts on families and the society, he said.
During the first session out of two for the day, Tranling Khardew exhorted parents and children to say yes to education, even as he emphasised that at present, education is not just about landing a job but for the overall well-being of a person.
While underlining the importance of a friendly atmosphere in the classroom, he called on teachers to be role models for the young boys and girls. He encouraged the parents to be active stakeholders in education of their children.
Phaibor Paliar, a graduate in Theology, who conducted the second session, encouraged children to tap their potentials and talents.
He then went on to highlight the lack of motivation and guidance, besides negative perceptions on cognitive abilities, parents’ economic challenges and other factors that lead students to drop out of school.
He stressed that a change of mindset is the need of the hour.