Flip through the latest issue of Gulf Weekly.
Perhaps my perception comes from being part of a community that highly values an education in scientific and mathematical subjects, but I believe not enough value is placed on intelligence. In particular, the type that individuals often display through either more artistic or at least less conventional ways.
In an international community, all forms of intelligence should be considered equal; however, this is often not the case when it comes to employment or potential future career options.
Luckily, I can say that I have been very privileged to attend a school that places value on subjects across a broad spectrum, from physics and chemistry to visual arts and design and technology.
Unfortunately, the same cannot be said for many other institutions, not only on the island but throughout the world. Although the value of entertainment arts and less conventional forms of specialisation is increasing, I still notice the diminished significance of creativity in the daily lives of teenagers – we should be taught to expand our imagination, whilst simultaneously be given the opportunity to develop our talents in more specific subjects.
Many of my friends have talents that have traditionally been shunned as unproductive or without a secure future, and yet even this kind of artistic or economical intelligence should not be undervalued.
Especially now with future plans and prospects fast approaching, every student should give some thought to their true passion and true strengths, no matter what those may be.
