Siyoi Ward Curriculum Support Officer Joseph Soita Maruti has challenged parents to abandon examination-related intimidation, unhealthy comparisons and excessive academic pressure, insisting that every child has unique abilities that must be nurtured under the Competency-Based Education (CBE) system.
Maruti urged parents, particularly fathers, to participate more actively in school meetings and their children's education, emphasising that learner success requires a strong partnership between families and teachers.
He said CBE differs from the former 8-4-4 system by placing greater emphasis on competencies, practical skills, talents and individual abilities. Parents, he added, should stop measuring children against one another and instead recognise their strengths, address learning gaps and support progress at an individual pace.
At the Early Childhood Development Education (ECDE) level, Maruti stressed that no child should be branded a failure. He cautioned parents against threatening, humiliating or quarrelling with learners over examination performance, warning that such treatment can undermine confidence and concentration.
He called on families to provide adequate food, sufficient sleep, tender care and essential learning materials while maintaining peaceful homes. Parents should also keep personal disagreements away from children, saying family conflicts and hostile exchanges can interfere with learners' emotional well-being.
Reject cheating and superstitious practices
Maruti urged parents to reject examination malpractice and avoid resorting to sorcery or witchcraft in the hope of improving their children's performance. He encouraged families to pray with their children, trust God and work closely with teachers, while emphasising honest preparation, discipline and practical support.
He also championed the goal of 100 per cent transition, calling for concerted efforts to ensure that learners receive the support necessary to progress in line with applicable assessment and progression requirements.
As learners prepare for Grade 10, Maruti cautioned parents against forcing children into career pathways that do not align with their competencies, interests or aspirations.
He urged parents to consult teachers and career guidance professionals to help learners make informed choices that nurture their talents and prepare them for future opportunities, rather than imposing decisions based on family expectations or social pressure.
Meanwhile, Maruti commended teachers at Talau across ECDE, primary and junior school levels for their intrinsic motivation and commitment to duty. He highlighted professional discipline, regular attendance and dedication to learners as essential ingredients in effective education.
He noted that he had repeatedly visited the school, providing opportunities to engage with teachers and observe the learning environment.
Maruti's appeal is for parents and educators to replace fear with encouragement, comparison with appreciation and intimidation with guidance. He maintained that education must nurture the whole learner, not merely produce examination results.
His message is unequivocal: every child deserves dignity, support and an opportunity to succeed. Parents and teachers must work together to nurture individual competencies, promote 100 per cent transition and ensure that no learner is left behind.
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