Schooling without having to undergo exams was an issue that over the years created huge controversies in the development of our educational system. We do not need to discuss it here.
Today in a system where exams are still the rule, young people who were preparing to go through what in my young days used to be called the “O” level exams, have been told it’s best to do without them to counter the corona virus pandemic. Instead they could continue with their studies on the basis of how they performed in their secondary school classes. Or, if I understood correctly, they could take up the option of entering for some exams come September.
It is a valid and well thought out compromise. But one understands how a number of pupils feel disorented by what has been happening. Over the past two to three years, they would have been targeting to get over this hurdle and now it’s been taken away from them.
Exams are a time of stress, true, but also a challenge. Everybody, young or old, might feel very hard done by when a challenge is lifted.
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NO WASTE OF TIME
As I see it, Europe must decide as quickly as possible in what way it is going to action the recovery plan for European economies that must be launched when the corona virus pandemic has been overcome. What have been most in the limelight up to now are proposals put forward as if for debate. This is still ongoing, even after the European Council of late last week.
There is a clear priority to agree on effective and wideranging action programmes that could be made ready for immediate implementation.
I might be reading the situation incorrectly – which is what I hope. But it seems like we’re still far away from reaching such a signpost.
Those who maintain that the European Union always takes late decision might have a good point. After all, the Union has 27 member states, all having their own viewpoints and interests. As of now, it has always got it right, even if late in the day. Still, how true is this?
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TOURISM
People involved in the tourism industry face a formidable challenge that in the history of this country is without precedent. The same applies for many other Mediterranean destinations which have emerged during the past thirty to forty years.
Some forecast that once the pandemic has subsided, Mediterranean tourism will suddenly accelerate. I certainly hope so but I am sceptical.
Another forecast would have tourism recover slowly but would then sustain its rate of growth, as people would seek to put away the bad vibes created by the pandemic and turn back to the ways of living and entertainment they enjoyed previously.
Perhaps what will be important in future scenarios is that the way forward covers a sustainable recovery. It would be better if it comes late and maintains momentum, than if once recovery is back, it wilts too soon.
Optimism about the future needs to be built on solid foundations.