Most of us have watched the video of a Japanese secondary school student taking the train to school from her remote village – but she is the only passenger!
Now, it turns out that the authorities had intended to stop the unprofitable service long ago, but in keeping with the requirement of the student, decided to continue operations until she graduates.
Well, some may say this is crazy but, in Japan, this is considered the right thing to do because it is everyone’s right to be provided an education. There is also a focus on teaching students to work in a team spirit, to clean the classrooms, properly use cafeterias and washrooms, besides providing proper food and instilling other social values.
At all stages in life, a person seeks knowledge, learning and acquiring new experiences and skills – in other words, knowledge is sought from the cradle to the grave. And societies in which the number of educated people are increasing are societies that make progress and advancement in all spheres.
Education is the only way for society to make a mark and is considered one of the goals of all heavenly messages, and the first verse that was revealed to our Master Muhammad (peace and blessings be upon him), was ‘Read’.
Reading and education are among the most important goals of religion.
As I watched the video, I recalled a recent University of Bahrain decision to stop transportation for students, as a result of which many of them and their families had to look for other means – even buying or renting cars. They should have instead looked at improving public transportation and preparing students to attend lectures, but justified their decision saying they need to rationalise spending and preserve the environment. They also said public transportation had been made available for the students.
Over the years, the university has been encouraging everyone, including students, academics and administrators to use public transportation as this reduces traffic congestion and environmental pollution, especially since public buses have regular access to parking, are air-conditioned, modern and have WiFi service as well.
Are the differences between Japan and us not stark? Is anyone listening?
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