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Real meaning of power

(China Daily)
Updated: 2010-12-15 08:04

A primary school in Changsha, capital of Hunan province, has begun a program that organizes a mock government and allows students to hold "posts of power". The program has invited widespread criticism. But people criticizing the program should realize that it is important for students to know the real meaning of power, says an article in Huashang Morning Post. Excerpts:

The program allows 8- to 10-year-old students to set up a mock government in which each of them plays the role of an official.

Though people have welcomed most of the pioneering educational programs, they have criticized the Changsha program.

Their concern is understandable because power is often mistaken as something ugly in the world of adults. But the program will do a world of good to young students because they will know the advantages and disadvantages of wielding power. They will know that real power means contributing to society and helping people. They will also know that power comes with responsibilities and should always be supervised.

The Changsha school program allows students to elect their "mayor" on the basis of his/her promise and capability to serve the "community", that is, the class. More importantly, the students have the power to oust the "mayor" if he/she fails to serve the people, that is, the class.

The program reflects the real aspects of power. People should not stop students from knowing the real meaning of power, which is part of civic education, just because some officials are corrupt and abuse their power.