By Tyron Devotta
Over the past few days, social media has been abuzz with news of a schoolboy reveler at a cycle parade using a cross as a prop, seemingly as part of the carnival-like atmosphere that builds before a big match. Some may find this in poor taste, but with the school principal promptly apologizing and saying he will investigate; we need to leave the matter to the school authorities. As Christians, we understand that the cross represents forgiveness and the ultimate sacrifice of one who taught us to bear insults gracefully! So, let us say this matter ends here.
However, this incident highlights a more significant issue beyond the perceived offense—how much do these schoolboys truly understand about etiquette and the way our society functions?
In today’s fast-changing digital landscape, where social media channels often dictate norms of expression and behavior, there is an urgent need for a robust civics education in Sri Lankan schools. The rapid proliferation of online content—frequently unfiltered and divisive—has left many young people navigating a maze of conflicting messages about what is acceptable and what is not. This environment calls for a renewed commitment to teaching responsibility, ethical conduct, and the foundational principles of our society.
The Challenge of the Digital Era
Social media platforms have revolutionized communication, but they have also contributed to a fragmented public discourse. Algorithms often amplify sensational or polarizing content, while critical values like respect, empathy, and informed debate can be overshadowed by echo chambers and misinformation. This digital disruption has real-world consequences: it influences political opinions, social interactions, and even shapes the moral compass of its users.
For Sri Lankan youth, who are increasingly exposed to these influences, there is a pressing need for a counterbalance—a curriculum that anchors them in the core principles of civic engagement and responsible behavior.
Civic education refers to the teaching and learning of the rights, responsibilities, and duties of citizens in a society. It aims to equip individuals with the knowledge, skills, and values needed to participate effectively in democratic processes, understand government structures, respect the rule of law, the norms' meaning unwritten rules, and how to contribute to their communities. Civic education fosters informed, responsible, and engaged citizens who can think critically about social and political issues.
It is essential because social engagement in the real world, the hows and whys, something that came naturally to the baby boomer generation may not be so obvious to the Gen Z’s or the alpha or beta generations.
When we talk about politics, it goes far beyond party politics or electoral competition. Having a political mind in society means being aware of how power, policies, and governance shape everyday life. It involves understanding societal structures, questioning injustices, and actively engaging in discussions and decisions that impact communities.
A politically minded individual considers issues such as social justice, human rights, economic policies, and public services—not just in terms of government decisions but also in how institutions, businesses, and individuals contribute to societal well-being. It’s about critical thinking, civic responsibility, and the ability to navigate and influence the systems that govern society, whether through activism, education, leadership, or simply being an informed and engaged citizen.
True political awareness means recognizing that politics is embedded in culture, history, and human interactions. It’s about shaping the world we live in—not just through voting but through everyday actions, dialogue, and participation in civic life.
Why Tough Civics Education Is Essential
1. Establishing Agreed Norms:
A strong civics curriculum can help create and reinforce a set of agreed norms of behavior. By teaching young people about their rights, duties, and the ethical underpinnings of community life, schools can empower them to discern between constructive and harmful behaviors, both online and offline.
2. Encouraging Critical Thinking:
In a world awash with information, the ability to critically assess sources and understand underlying biases is invaluable. Tough civics education equips students with the tools to question narratives, engage in meaningful debate, and arrive at informed conclusions—a skill set essential for maintaining a healthy democracy.
3. Fostering Social Cohesion:
By instilling values such as respect, tolerance, and civic duty, civics education can bridge divides exacerbated by digital polarization. When students learn to appreciate the importance of collective responsibility, they become active participants in shaping a society that values fairness and unity.
4. Preparing for Future Leadership:
The next generation of leaders must be adept at navigating both traditional societal structures and the fast-paced world of digital communication. An enhanced civics curriculum that integrates digital literacy, ethical considerations, and public policy will prepare students not only for local challenges but also for global leadership roles.
Building the Profession of Tough Civics
For psychiatric and education professionals tasked with designing and delivering this modern civics curriculum, several steps are essential:
- Interdisciplinary Training:
Educators and mental health professionals must collaborate to integrate insights from psychology, sociology, digital media studies, and traditional civics. This interdisciplinary approach ensures that the curriculum addresses the complexities of modern communication and behavior.
- Curriculum Innovation:
The development of engaging, interactive learning modules that utilize technology can capture students’ attention and make abstract concepts tangible. Simulations, debates, and role-playing exercises that mirror real-world dilemmas—especially those emerging from digital interactions—can be powerful tools in shaping critical thinking and ethical decision-making.
- Ongoing Professional Development:
As technology and societal norms evolve, so too must the training provided to educators. Continuous professional development in digital ethics, online communication strategies, and the latest civic research is crucial for keeping the curriculum relevant and effective.
- Community and Stakeholder Engagement:
Involving parents, community leaders, and policymakers in the curriculum development process helps ensure that the norms taught in schools resonate beyond the classroom. Creating a shared vision for civic behavior can foster an environment where values learned at school are reflected in everyday interactions.
Looking Ahead
The future of civics education in Sri Lanka lies in embracing a dual approach: one that upholds traditional values of civic duty and community, while also addressing the unique challenges posed by the digital age. By implementing a tougher, more comprehensive civics curriculum, schools can play a pivotal role in nurturing a generation of thoughtful, resilient, and ethically grounded citizens.
In an era where social media can often blur the boundaries of acceptable behavior, this renewed focus on civics is not just desirable—it is imperative. As Sri Lanka charts its course into the future, robust civics education will be the foundation upon which a more just, unified, and resilient society is built.
Sources:
Political Awareness - https://politicalawareness.org/the-essence-of-political-awareness/
Questions AI - https://www.questionai.com/essays-ekC2F28FCx6/importance-political-awareness-modern-society
Republic Policy - https://republicpolicy.com/the-role-of-political-awareness-in-strengthening-democracy/
Skills You Need - https://www.skillsyouneed.com/ips/political-awareness.html
Think With Wajahat - https://thinkwithwajahat.blogspot.com/2023/11/Empowering-Minds-The-Importance-of-Political-Awareness.html
City Lit - https://www.citylit.ac.uk/blog/politics-awareness-vs-understanding
Laws Learned - https://lawslearned.com/importance-of-political-literacy/