Victorian President's Report

As we approach the end of term, it's easy to get caught up in the whirlwind of deadlines and assessments. However, it's equally important to take a moment to reflect on the broader landscape of education.  Airports and interstate travel certainly provide such opportunity, and it was on my most recent trip to Western Australian for the APF branch AGM that I had opportunity to pause and reflect on the philosophy of Unbuntu.

Ubuntu, an African philosophy meaning "I am because we are," emphasises community, interconnectedness, and shared humanity. In education, Ubuntu creates a collaborative environment where students, educators, and families recognise their interdependence. It fosters empathy, collective responsibility, and the understanding that each person’s well-being strengthens the entire community.

Incorporating Ubuntu shifts education from competition to shared learning, where teamwork and mutual respect are prioritised. It nurtures not just academic success but also social and emotional development, preparing students to be compassionate, community-minded leaders in a globally connected world.

In the past month, we’ve witnessed renewed commitment from the Government and the Department to The Education State agenda. This agenda could be seen as embracing the principles of Ubuntu by promoting inclusive, community-focused learning that values each student’s success. However, implementing Ubuntu in schools can be challenging, as the emphasis on individual achievement and standardised testing often favours competition over collaboration.

As you immerse yourself in the events, demands, and reflections of the term while approaching the end of the school year, take a moment to consider how your school is cultivating a collaborative culture that emphasises "we" over "I."

Published Principals' Digest 1 November 2024