DFAT D.C. Orientation Revisited: At the Heart of Being a Global Citizen

The Institute of International Education (IIE) organised a two and half day Orientation for all the 2013-2014 DFAT teachers, both international teachers and outbound US teachers going to UK, South Africa, India, Argentina and Singapore. They also invited DFAT 2012 Alumni US teachers who have completed their exchange and returned to the US, with some only just landed in US two weeks earlier.

The sessions were well organised and very thoughtful. Personally, I am deeply touched by the sharing of the US Fulbright alumni (picture on left). Essentially, many have learnt to be a real global citizen during the 3 to 6 months in the various countries. Their sharing is sincere and insightful. They learnt life outside the US, they learnt life the less convenient way, they walked the path unfamiliar, they learnt life in another culture and system, they learnt a side of themselves unknown to them until they left home.

In many ways, Singapore as a nation has become affluent over the years. In general, our kids are very well provided for. Relatively speaking, our poorer kids are considered fortunate when compared with kids in some countries. I wish some day, Singapore will have its own version of Fulbright exchange program, not just for teachers but for leaders amongst students. We have moved into the new phase in our education - student- and values-centred education. I believe that it is essential to develop resistance towards apathy in our youth. I imagine that if at least 2 secondary student leaders from each school can be involved in a 4 to 5 week exchange and community project in less affluent communities locally and abroad,  they would learn to become more appreciative and hopefully develop an emotional capacity and desire to give back. I am touched by one of the Fulbrighters who shared that in her community, many students are from less affluent families, and may have financial challenges but they have always been taught that "one is never too poor to give". Thus it changes the mindset from that of 'giving is done by the privileged' to 'giving is a privilege for anyone'. That is so empowering!

Many shared how much they have been re-energized as an educator, and how their passion further fuelled. At the heart of being a global citizen-educator is to have a heart beating strongly for education, knowing that an individual educator can make a difference. It does not matter how great or small, what matters is that consciousness in the heart.

The Orientation at D.C. ended with a reception dinner that saw more sincere sharing, some singing and a performance by the talented young daughter of one of the Fulbrighters. At the end of the night, we were given a Fulbright pin and were told to wear it with pride. I held the pin in my hand and know I will wear it with deep gratitude in my heart. I am humbled. The totally 'unexpected art educator' has been blessed with such privilege to listen, to see and to learn. Praise God.