Gabriel S. Tidoe, the Director of the Forpoh Vocational Training Institute in Grand Kru County, Liberia, delivered a compelling address at the 34th Thanksgiving Service of Doyle Goodspeed Christian Academy, underscoring the critical role of parental involvement in education. He argued that Liberia’s progress towards matching regional educational standards hinges on the commitment of parents and guardians to actively participate in their children’s learning journey. Tidoe emphasized that parental responsibility extends beyond mere enrollment and tuition payments; it necessitates consistent engagement with their children’s academic progress, including reviewing their work and maintaining regular communication with teachers. He posited that this active involvement is crucial for fostering a supportive learning environment and ensuring that children receive the necessary guidance and encouragement.
Tidoe passionately advocated for a holistic understanding of education, transcending the conventional focus on literacy and numeracy. He portrayed education as a transformative force that equips individuals with a wide range of knowledge, skills, values, and experiences, empowering them to lead fulfilling lives and contribute positively to society. He argued that education permeates all facets of life, shaping daily interactions, influencing behaviors, and informing decision-making processes, from the mundane to the profound. This pervasive influence underscores the importance of embracing education not just within formal settings, but also within the home, workplace, and community.
Expanding on the multifaceted nature of education, Tidoe highlighted its impact on various aspects of human behavior, including communication, social interactions, culinary practices, and even personal style. He emphasized that education begins at home, with parents serving as the primary educators and their children as their first students. This underscores the importance of creating a stimulating learning environment within the home, where children are encouraged to explore, question, and learn from an early age. He further encouraged parents to embrace non-formal educational opportunities, such as adult literacy programs, vocational training, and community workshops, emphasizing their potential to foster self-reliance and empower individuals to contribute meaningfully to their communities.
Tidoe’s address extended beyond the importance of parental involvement and holistic education to explore the powerful role of education as a weapon against ignorance and misinformation. He argued that education equips individuals with the critical thinking skills necessary to analyze information, make informed decisions, and avoid the pitfalls of misinformation. By promoting critical thinking, education empowers individuals to navigate the complexities of the modern world, make sound judgments, and contribute constructively to societal progress. This emphasis on critical thinking underscores the importance of education in fostering a well-informed and discerning citizenry.
Furthermore, Tidoe highlighted the ethical dimension of education, emphasizing its role in instilling values and morals. He argued that education not only imparts knowledge and skills, but also shapes character and fosters positive behavior within communities. This moral dimension of education is essential for building a just and equitable society, where individuals are guided by ethical principles and contribute to the common good. By promoting values such as respect, responsibility, and empathy, education empowers individuals to become responsible and engaged citizens.
In conclusion, Tidoe’s address at the Doyle Goodspeed Christian Academy’s Thanksgiving Service served as a powerful call to action for parents, guardians, and the community at large to prioritize education. He emphasized the multifaceted nature of education, highlighting its transformative power to empower individuals, combat ignorance, and promote positive societal change. His call for active parental involvement, coupled with his emphasis on holistic education and critical thinking, underscores the critical role of education in shaping a brighter future for Liberia. The event itself celebrated the academic achievements of twenty-two graduating students, symbolizing the promise and potential of education to transform lives and communities.
