PROJECT CHILDREN

Who do you think is responsible for this exam result? The family system? The education system?

E) Hepsi mi?…

Right now, while we live within the molds we’ve created for our children in our own world, who is dying? May God spare everyone from the pain of losing a child…

Today, within our multiple personalities as parents or teachers:

”geçmişe dönebilseydim, çocuğumla veya öğrencimle farklı bir iletişim geliştirirdim” diyebilen insan, sanırım farkedebilen en büyük güce sahiptir.

Our deepest condolences to the families of all the children who lost their lives in every corner of our country.

I wanted to share with you the correspondence I had with teacher Gülendam on social media regarding this critical issue, in order to get your comments:

Gülendam Yılmaz:
Education I believe the system led to this tragic outcome. If children are forced to compete like racehorses without experiencing their childhood, this is what happens. No one should blame anyone else. As the saying goes, “fire burns where it falls,” and those who were burned have already suffered. Problems cannot be solved by harassing them. Every individual possesses unique qualities and talents. If this is forgotten and success is expected from everyone in a specific area, despair can cost lives.

Uğur Uğural:
My very esteemed teacher Gülendam Yılmaz, you stated so powerfully: “Every individual possesses unique talents.” In your opinion, which systems determine the life definition of children who define themselves as “successful children” today? I would like to hear your opinion on this matter…

Gülendam Yılmaz:
I think there wouldn’t be a problem if there was a proper system. Systems implemented in countries with high levels of education should be thoroughly examined, and those suitable for us should be adopted. There are institutions that determine children’s intelligence levels, interests, and talents. Children should first be considered from this perspective and directed to schools appropriate for them. I had a student who was struggling with his grades and his off-putting demeanor, causing him to feel isolated in class. Although it wasn’t my field, I was asked to teach art class due to a shortage of teachers. I asked a parent who was an artist to help me with this. After obtaining the necessary permission from the school administration, I went into the class with the parent. They had him do oil painting. Of course, after providing the necessary information and materials. That student I considered unsuccessful created wonders. Suddenly, he became the darling of the class, the sought-after student. Once he gained self-confidence, his other grades improved as well. If his talent hadn’t been discovered, he might have been wasted. What I mean is that nowadays, success is generally measured by tests. Students aren’t considered as individuals, and an appropriate method isn’t applied.

Uğur Uğural:
Sir, I think we need to realize this. Parenting and teaching roles; It contains a much broader power of discovery than the definitions we know and perceive. Now I am writing these sentences and my thoughts to you and sharing them with you. I’m sure; Individuals within the family and education system notice all these! But…? A huge but…? Maybe in the desperation of being a “society that knows, not a society that learns”; Thus, we have problems applying even what we know… The story you shared and millions of stories like it; I think it is one of the most serious problems of our country. Thank you for your efforts and your heart. I’m so glad you joined me, sir…

Gülendam Yılmaz:
Dear Uğur, thank you. A well-educated generation like you will illuminate the future by filling in our shortcomings.

This event, which culminated in Berrin’s suicide, is not the first painful loss for the millions of unhealthy parents in our country who have grown up immersed in shame. The saddest part is that we know it won’t be the last.

Uğur Uğural