It's that time of the year when the feverish excitement of Class X examinations getting over is gone. It's also probably that time of the year when discussions (arguments?) on what should the 16-year-old do next peak.A friend's parents, driven by sheer practicality, have been insisting that the son take up medical subjects and later take charge of the family clinic. The youngster, on the other hand, has his mind set on joining the Army (inspired by the ``Do You Have It In You'' ads?). Both are sticking to their decisions.It's a repeat situation in many other homes too. Parents reason out that with their experience and ``we've-seen-it-all'' years, they know what is best for the child, so they automatically have the right to decide what profession the child should take up.This is not to say that the children are always correct. Peer pressure and glamour of the profession make many of them set unrealistic goals for themselves.So how is the problem resolved? Obviously the need is to strike a balance between the aspirations of both the parents and the child and the capability of the child. Luckily, in Chandigarh, one of the places that offers help is the State Education Institute, in Sector 32. An aptitude test conducted here helps in knowing the child's strengths and hence is a pointer to the field or profession he/she is inclined towards and is likely to do well in. These are especially useful for students, who after being branded ``mediocre'', are unsure of their capabilities.Besides this, it is necessary that the parents try to find out the child's potential much before they are confronted with the ``what next?'' question. Greater interaction with teachers and keener observation on their part and most importantly encouraging the child to participate in activities other than academics will help them know the child's talents better. Help the child strengthen his strength even if it lies in sports, music, art and not sciences and computers. Careers, other than engineering and doctors, are aplenty and opportunities abound.Of course, teachers too have to do their bit. They too have to realise that educating a child is helping the child to know his abilities. And they too have to give their share of encouragement to students. Many schools in the City are going in for changes in methods of teaching which excite a sense of curiosity in the child. Classroom interactions are more informal, teachers more friendly, and learning is no more jotting down notes. All are steps towards all-round development of the students.Even the much required changes in the education system seem to be finally taking place. With the Punjab Education Board allowing Class X students to use books during examination, it will be good riddance to senseless cramming in the least. This will also make the students do a thorough study and think for a change.(The writer is working as a sub-editor with The Indian Express.)
