August 2020; as we celebrate our 63rd Merdeka, we celebrate heroes who have fought hard and sacrificed for our country, one way or another.
The COVID-19 pandemic hasn’t been easy for all, and we should celebrate Merdeka in thanksgiving for our fellow Malaysians who diligently fulfilled their responsibilities in serving the nation despite the pandemic. Numbered among the heroes are the early childhood (EC) practitioners who devote their time and energy in educating and caring for children and their families despite the challenging circumstances. In our first Early Childhood monthly webinar by SEGi College Subang Jaya, lecturer Michelle Huan highlighted the contribution of EC practitioners in keeping children safe at home.
In that same webinar, the challenges of the EC industry were shared. Our industry advisor, Mr Cheah Eng Khoon, CEO of the Talent Group, likened the pandemic’s drastic effect on EC to a Tsunami, calling for the need for all to embrace “the new norm” for survival in our new EC ecosystem.
And Mr Jery Yeoh of Whytehouse spoke on what he and his team has done to rise above these times.
In short, we recognise the need for EC leaders and practitioners with the
- critical ability to develop practical and relevant responses in terms of services offered;
- boldness and resilience to experiment with new pedagogical approaches, classroom designs and parental involvement strategies;
- spirit of collaboration to share openly with others and an open mind to learn from each other
Happy Merdeka & stay safe, everyone.
EC leaders, parents and children across the nation exchanging their wishes on teachers’ day in a heartfelt video, which hit more than 2,000 views on various social media platforms.
