“The most important thing when engaging students in any role in school is to acknowledge their first duty; learning. Their learning is paramount to being meaningfully involved throughout schools. Learning through meaningful student involvement should include; stated learning goals, meaningful action, and sustained, deep reflection. This is highlighted by SoundOut, an online consulting firm that works with education patrons. Educators believe that the role of students shouldn’t be taken lightly, as they need to understand what is taught. Therefore, hands-on learning is crucial. Mathias Nkeeto, a mathematics teacher at Green Hills Academy, says the student has the most important part to play in education. He notes that as an educator, to be able to teach well, a student should be keen on what is being taught. However, the teacher points out that although an educator has a lot to do in education, most of it is influenced by the efforts of students. “Students’ role in the educational system is to learn what they are being taught, and most importantly, find ways to apply that learning outside the school environment,” he says. Nkeeto says that the work of the teacher is to complete the syllabus, and it’s the responsibility of students to make sure they grasp the content. Meanwhile, he points out that this shouldn’t limit the teacher to only finishing the syllabus, they should ensure their learners have understood everything. Marc Ndagijimana, a teacher at GS Ruhango Catholique in Ruhango District, echoes the view that as far as learning is concerned, it’s the work of the students to ensure that whatever they are taught is understood. He says that in order to make learning interesting, students should make sure they inquire more on particular issues, especially where they feel they need to know more or haven’t fully understood. This, Ndagijimana says, makes the whole process of learning lively, thus breaking monotony. He further notes that students need to learn what teachers are coaching; adding that the duty of an educational system is to impart students with knowledge on various aspects of the world. “Students are also supposed to apply what they have learned in school in their day-to-day lives. This creates meaning to the material presented to them,” he says. For instance, Ndagijimana notes that art classes should not stop at creating art during class, rather, they should continue to apply the techniques and strategies of what they learned in their everyday creations. Ndagijimana points out another important aspect, saying that students should learn to understand, not memorise, to pass examinations. He says they should find passion in their work to exceed expectations. Not necessarily go over-the-top, but be able to apply their skills, ask questions, and understand the importance of education. Jesse Mugisha, a student at University of Rwanda’s College of Education, believes that active participation of students in learning institutions is heavily required. He says all students are expected to be involved in interactions with colleagues, as well as teachers, in discussions, and outside the classroom. This way, Mugisha says, it will help students in the long run. Mugisha notes that students should strive to keep themselves motivated, which, according to him, is a prime duty. “The role of a teacher is more of a facilitator, while the role of a student is a task monitor, therefore, students should be responsible for everything they are tasked to do by their teachers,” he says. Just like the work of the teacher is to finish the syllabus, Mugisha says students should also be proficient and ensure the syllabus is completed within the stipulated time. Mugisha adds that students should practice good communication skills and apply hands-on learning. Nkeeto notes that students should stay focused on studies, and other extracurricular activities that boost the learning process. He adds that their responsibility is demonstrated in their choices and actions, which could lead them to their goals, or astray. “Responsible students take ownership of their actions by exhibiting good behaviour, such as demonstrating academic integrity and honesty, among others,” he says. editor@newtimesrwanda.com
