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Co-education in schools: Boon or bane?

Students from schools across the UAE give their opinion on the subject.

Mohammed Basheer

Our Own English High School, Al Ain

I say a big no to coeducation. Many people believe that being in a coeducation system helps overcome students’ shyness and build confidence. Unfortunately, this is not true! Students often refrain from asking questions in class because they fear that they if they ask a silly question it may spoil their reputation in front of the opposite gender.

Haifa Maryam

The Indian High School, Dubai

I think coeducation is important in today’s schooling, especially in patriarchal societies like ours. It stresses the vitality of women’s education, and promotes equality and harmony among both the genders. Also, in a coed school, the child has more exposure to the opposite gender and hence would not only feel more comfortable in others’ company, but would also know how to conduct themselves better. Moreover, coed school helps create mutual respect, generate healthy competition and encourage diversity of thought.

Ardra Mohandas

Our Own English High School, Sharjah

I prefer coeducation as it creates an atmosphere of equality and understanding. People from coed schools always feel free to chat with everyone. It takes off the shyness and helps us interact with each other in a better way. Coeducation gives us the opportunity to adjust in the real life society.

Marwa Mohamed Shahid

Indian School, Al Ain

Teaching male and female students in the same institution without showing any discrimination in imparting education creates a feeling of comradeship. I believe that coeducation provides a more realistic way of training young people to take their places in the wider community of men and women. In a coed school, both female and male perspectives will be explored in discussions and this is a very important learning experience.

Raj Kamlesh Jain

Our Own English High School, Sharjah

Coeducation is certainly preferable because the friendly atmosphere between a boy and a girl allows them to express their views openly and confidently. It can help the students to grow mentally. But at the same time, it results in low concentration levels as one at the time of maturity tends to develop an attraction towards the opposite sex. Thus, one studying in schools following this system of education must abide by some etiquettes.

Next week’s topic

Are school teachers biased to their favourite students?

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