Dixya Poudel

Humans are considered rational, intellectual and logical species which is why they have dominance over the world and its vast resources. They have arrived to certain advancements in this world, all thanks to science and technology. As humans get more and more advanced, they tend to compete among themselves for power, position and influence. And more often than not, they create social hierarchies within their communities. And one way they do so is through education which is a deciding factor for the progress of an individual.
How can we accurately evaluate a person's intellect? It is an age old question that mankind has been asking throughout history. A myriad of tests have been created to evaluate human intellect. Today we have tests such as SAT (Scholastic Assessment Test) and TOEFL (Test of English as a Foreign Language) that are prerequisite for admissions to colleges abroad. Especially North America requires its students to pass their SATs with flying colours in order to be admitted into highly selective colleges and universities.
Likewise, all students worldwide are familiar with the rigours of educational tests and examinations. They grow up fearing failures in their academics and regard examinations with apprehension. It leads to unhealthy competition among the students. Very often, they are under much stress due to their academic courses and are acutely preoccupied with the grades they are assigned. However, are grades the only evaluation of human intellect? Should individuals' worth solely be tied to their grades? Further, are college degrees and certifications the ultimate assessment of a person?
In addition, there is the matter of emotional intelligence which ought to be considered and included in the educational curriculums. According to Psychology Today, "Emotional intelligence refers to the ability to identify and manage one's own emotions, as well as the emotions of others." It requires a profound level of emotional awareness.
However cognitively intelligent a person may be, he or she needs to have a modicum of respect and harmony for fellow beings. A thriving society functions through the backbone of cordiality, collaboration and a certain level of empathy. For who are we if we cannot connect to one another on a humanitarian level? The fact is success depends on a myriad of factors, not just cognition. It depends on the ability to persevere in a subject of interest and develop it into a passion.
Thus let's not get too bogged down with the educational metrics. If you turn the pages of history, you will find that some of the greatest minds struggled with their schooling. The mavericks of the world throughout history went farther than their grades. The youths today are liable to accrue debts in school loans and struggle with a heavy schedule. Instead, they must come to terms with the fact that true education can extend even beyond the number designated on their school reports.
Contrarily, as a society, we are too focused on achievements, successes, rewards and prizes. We applaud students when they succeed and commiserate with them when they fail. Perhaps we can do better by teaching students to value themselves as a person, rather than through their grades. Thus, it is time to rethink and re-evaluate education system and include a more diverse, versatile and innovative curriculum in our schools, colleges and universities.