Jalal Karimiann, an education policy researcher and a graduate in the philosophy of education, discussed the impacts of war on the mission and structure of the education institution in an exclusive interview, emphasizing that closing schools under such conditions is the worst possible decision. He pointed to the importance of preserving schools as a social institution and avoiding hasty changes.
The Necessity of Revising Educational Policies
Karimiann stressed the need to revise educational policies during wartime, stating that we might expect all areas of policymaking to act like a battlefield in the event of war. He noted: "This is an incomplete picture. We must first examine whether this picture is accurate or not?" He also pointed out that school-centered management and decentralization of education are topics that have been discussed in the country for nearly thirty years and should not be rapidly altered due to wartime conditions.
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Preserving Schools in Wartime Conditions
Karimiann emphasized that we should focus on preserving schools and avoid making fundamental changes to the education institution during wartime. He stated: "Interfering with the structure of education is not easily feasible and may lead to more chaos." He further referred to the difficulties of reopening schools in recent months and mentioned that under these conditions, schools can provide a space for social breathing.
He outlined three categories of expectations for schools: educational, cultural, and social. He pointed out that in wartime, social expectations should be activated more, and schools should help foster social cohesion and cultivate citizens. Karimiann also referenced recent surveys, stating that families are extremely concerned about the quality of their children's education and that there is a need for more attention to this area.
In conclusion, Jalal Karimiann warned that the gap between the educational goals of the government and the real needs of families could create problems. He noted that if families feel that the new goals of the school do not align with their needs, they may distance themselves from the educational system. Therefore, bridging this gap and establishing effective communication between the government and families is of utmost importance.
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