Just sitting here...feeling young all over again

Sitting in class after the lesson I've conducted (we facilitate classes for the whole day...quite a draining task, for me at least), I can't help but eavesdrop on the conversations my students are having.

Some are finding opportunities to bond by exchanging thoughts about common interests.

Some are discussing about their after school plans.

Another chap put the call from his girlfriend on speakerphone --- causing some laughter from the class because of her high pitched voice.

Then there are others who are diligently doing the assignment I gave to them.

Bright young minds, some people would say.

"Make a difference!"

That was the message drummed into our minds during the pre-semester briefing, which was capped by a 'moving' video on a teacher who gave a certain student a 2nd chance at learning.

To what extent are we a part of moulding and shaping these young minds (I take back the phrase 'young minds', as there are students here in their 30s, 40s and 50s)?

The Singapore government recently went on a hiring spree to target 3,000 people to join the teaching profession. Among the candidates, many are crossing over from the corporate sector, after being let go as a result of the ongoing economic downturn. Good move on the part of the government to hire those in need of a job.

The million dollar question though, is this: Are they all cut out to be teachers?

Indeed, after observing many teachers, some are really in it for the wrong reasons. Perhaps, some were misled and became disillusioned after doing their time. But then again, this happens across all sectors and industries.

However, in the process, will our children become collateral damage in exchange for the education of individuals seeking their calling in life?

Tough call.

CEOs and HR managers know that finding talent is one of the greatest challenges of the 21st Century. Enter Generation Y (post 1980s babies) and it throws another curve ball at corporate and government policy planners.

Too many questions, too few answers. But hey, that's life, isn't it? =)

"Blessed are the flexible, for they shall not be bent out of shape."

(I know I am misquoting the owner of this quote, but I think fits, yah?)