Education. Topic for Conversation #2 / #24

Education

1. Tell me about the system of education in Belarus.

As the famous saying goes, knowledge is power. Besides, knowledge is often associated with freedom, independence and confidence. By knowledge I mean not just any information but the level of education in general or even erudition. One with knowledge can make a better way in the world. That’s why the role and the importance of education can’t be overestimated.

In Belarus there are 4 stages of education: preschool education, primary school education, secondary school education and higher education. In our country primary and secondary school education is compulsory. All in all it lasts for 11 years. Children go to primary school at the age of 6 or 7 and secondary school at the age of 10 or 11. Their school year begins on September the 1st and ends at the end of May. It is divided into 4 terms. At the end of each term they have holidays. Summer vacation is the longest.

The school day starts at 8.30 a.m. and finishes at 3 p.m. But the schedule can vary from school to school and in some establishments pupils can study in shifts. It is also required in many schools to wear a school uniform. Apart from comprehensive schools children can get primary and secondary education in gymnasiums. The requirements of such establishments are higher as a rule and they can differ in specialization. Alongside with state schools there are private schools which charge tuition fees (they are fee-paying). Meanwhile state schools are free of charge.

The basic task of school is to provide school students with knowledge and skills in particular subjects. The typical primary school curriculum includes the following subjects: Russian language and Russian Literature, Belarusian language and Belarusian literature, Foreign Language, Mathematics, Drawing, Music, and P.E. From the 5th form Biology, Chemistry, Physics, History, Geography and Computer Studies are added to the curriculum. Besides gaining knowledge and skills in various subjects children are taught to think critically, to analyze different phenomena, to view problems from different perspectives and to find possible solutions.

After the 9th form children can enter a college or a lyceum. These establishments provide a deeper specialization in different subjects and are more focused on the practical side of education.

To receive a GCSE (General Certificate of Secondary Education) students must take 4 exams: in Russian or Belarusian Language, Mathematics, History of Belarus and Foreign Language. After the 11th form pupils can enter a University to get a higher education.

The choice of the university is one of the main decisions a person makes in his life as it determines his/her future. So, it’s necessary to evaluate your abilities correctly. You should set your priorities in the spheres which you want to connect your future life with. It’s important to listen to the opinions of your parents, peers or teachers. But the last word should be yours!

Speaking about universities, our country is rich in them. Everybody can find something to their liking. However, to enter a university one needs to take 3 tests. The subjects and the entrance level vary depending on the university. If an applicant’s score is high enough he/she will be enrolled in the establishment he/she chose. According to their score they will be studying either for free and receiving scholarship or a fee will be charged from them.

University years are considered to be the most exciting and memorable years in a person’s life. Besides curricular activities there are lots of extracurricular activities where students can express their personalities and develop their talents. These activities include numerous music, dancing, sport sections, volunteering, youth organizations and many others.

No pains, no gains! Studying at university requires hard work and complete devotion. To pass an exam with flying colours, one must be ready to read piles of books. If you choose the right university it will be easier to cope with difficulties in your studies.

Upon graduation students are given diplomas of obtaining a Bachelor’s degree. And since that moment the career path of newly-born specialists begins. Some students, in fact, decide to continue education and get a Master’s degree. They dedicate their time and efforts to scientific research. 

No doubt, education is very important to everyone. Still, nowadays there is a tendency to strive not for knowledge but for marks and certificates. This is unwise. We need to remember that quality is more essential than quantity. So, it’s necessary to concentrate on self-education and self-development. This approach will make you an asset to any company or organization.

2. Do you like your school? Why or why not?

I live in Baranovichi and go to gymnasium #4. My school building is of a typical design. It’s a three-storied building with flowers in front of it and a sports ground behind it. My school is rather big with spacious classrooms for different subjects, with a teachers’ room, 2 gyms, a library, a canteen, an assembly hall and numerous cloakrooms for pupils. Unfortunately, not all classrooms are well-equipped, but my teachers do their best to provide all pupils with excellent knowledge. The atmosphere in my school is friendly and, I suppose, I will miss my teachers and my classmates after I leave school.

3. Ask me about education in Canada?

1. What is the main difference between Universities and Colleges in Canada?
2. How do I apply in a Canadian University/College?
3. Can I apply online in a Canadian university or do I have to be present in the country?
4. What are the top Universities in Canada?
5. What does it cost to be an international student in Canada?

4. What advice can you give me on how to prepare for exams well?

5. If you were the Minister of Education in Belarus, what would you change in our school system?