Education and Sharing Day: The moral foundation we cannot afford to neglect

WHEN DISCUSSING cultural icons who have shaped Jamaica’s identity, none stands taller than Louise ‘Miss Lou’ Bennett-Coverley. As a pioneering poet, folklorist, writer, and educator, Miss Lou transformed Jamaica’s cultural landscape. Her radio programmes like ‘Miss Lou’s Views’ and television show Ring Ding made her a national treasure, preserving Jamaican folklore and championing the idea that learning takes many forms beyond the classroom.

Miss Lou embodied the idea that true education is more than just memorising facts or solving problems, but shapes character. Education isn’t merely about standardised tests but about cultivating integrity, compassion, and what it means to be a ‘mensch’ – a Yiddish term for a good person.

Recently, I had the chance to speak with Mark Rosenblum, head of Hillel Academy in Kingston.

DEEPER THINKING

With over three decades of experience in education, Mark noted that while “Today’s students have unprecedented access to information, deeper thinking has become increasingly rare.” The challenge today isn’t access to knowledge, but developing wisdom – the capacity to evaluate and apply their knowledge ethically.

The question for educators is how do we return to a system where children are taught not only the essential academic subjects of science, math, reading and writing, but also how to be good people, how to stand up for what’s right, and how to have a strong moral fibre?

This very question is at the heart of an upcoming national day. On April 9, Jamaica’s governor egneral will proclaim Education and Sharing Day, a day which recognises the importance of ethical and character development in education. This celebration first began in the US in 1978 when President Jimmy Carter established it to acknowledge the importance of moral development in education.

This day also honours the profound legacy of the Rebbe, Rabbi Menachem M. Schneerson, whose revolutionary educational philosophy has transformed millions of lives across the globe.

INFINITE POTENTIAL

The Rebbe’s vision transcended traditional educational models by emphasising that education must nurture not just the mind but the soul. He championed a holistic approach where academic excellence and moral development are inseparable, teaching that every child – regardless of background or circumstance – possesses infinite potential.

His global network of over 5,000 educational institutions in more than 100 countries stands as testament to his belief that education is humanity’s most powerful vehicle for positive change. The Rebbe tirelessly advocated that true education must instil both intellectual curiosity and ethical responsibility, preparing children not just for successful careers but for meaningful lives of purpose and service to others. He encouraged children to live by a higher moral standard, and wanted them to live with the awareness that there is a divine “eye that sees, an ear that hears” (Proverbs 20:12) at all times.

As a father of four children and an educator for the past 10 years, I have come to appreciate the great legacy of the Rebbe, as well as another great educator and spiritual leader who lived over a century ago, Rabbi Sholom DovBer Schneersohn. Known as the ‘Rebbe Rashab’, he was the fifth spiritual leader of the Chabad movement, and espoused a far-sighted educational philosophy that resonates to this day.

He taught that: “A teacher must not simply instruct students; they must embody the values they wish to impart. Words alone are insufficient – education must be lived.” This idea, articulated over a century ago, is backed up by the latest research in developmental psychology, which says that children learn from what they observe far greater than by what they’re told or read.

The Rebbe Rashab gave out a challenge to parents and educators. He said, “Just as one cannot go a day without praying, so, too, we should never go a day without thinking deeply: ‘What are we doing to educate our children in the best way possible?’”

As we commemorate Education and Sharing Day this year, let’s take this challenge to heart. Let us dedicate 30 minutes to reflection on the following questions:

• What contribution am I making to education in my home?

• How am I supporting educational excellence in my community?

• What values do my actions communicate?

In our world today, children learn about honesty while witnessing ethical compromises in their leaders, and receive instruction on responsibility while observing figures of authority who evade accountability. If we want to educate our children, the most powerful question we can ask is: Are we embodying the values we claim to teach?

INTELLECTUAL DEVELOPMENT

Turning to our local history, I want to acknowledge the contributions the Jewish community has made over the past 350 years to Jamaica’s educational landscape. Hillel Academy was founded in 1969 by the United Congregation of Israelites, under the leadership of Rabbi Bernard Hooker and Eli Matalon. From its humble beginnings, it has grown into one of Jamaica’s premier educational institutions. The MultiCare Youth Foundation, founded by Joseph Matalon, has educated and empowered over 200,000 at-risk youth through vocational training and mentorship. These initiatives exemplify the Jewish community’s legacy of supporting educational programmes that balance intellectual development with character formation.

Looking ahead, this year’s Education and Sharing Day falls just days before Passover begins on April 12 – a holiday that underscores the power of education. During the Seder – Passover’s central ritual – the youngest participants ask, “Why is this night different from all other nights?” This is not just a tradition – it is a model for education itself, one that encourages questioning and critical thinking.

This approach to education – valuing questions as much as answers – reflects the same spirit that Miss Lou embodied in her work. Just as the Passover Seder invites us to engage with our heritage and seeking deeper understanding, Miss Lou encouraged Jamaicans to embrace their cultural voices and wisdom. Both traditions recognise that true education happens when we create space for curiosity, authenticity, and moral growth.

As we prepare to celebrate Education and Sharing Day in Jamaica, let us commit to the educational vision championed by these diverse traditions. Whether through the Rebbe’s emphasis on character development, the Rebbe Rashab’s call for daily educational reflection, or Miss Lou’s elevation of cultural wisdom, the message is clear: education at its best transforms not just minds but hearts. And, with G-d’s help, when we each embrace this sacred responsibility, we will create a Jamaica – and a world – that is brighter, kinder, and more filled with truth than ever before.

Rabbi Yaakov Raskin co-directs Chabad of Jamaica alongside his wife, Mushkee.Together, they have been serving the Jewish community and visitors to the island with warmth and dedication. Chabad of Jamaica will mark Education and Sharing Day on April 9, followed by Passover celebrations from April 12-20 at their headquarters in Montego Bay. For questions or comments, email info@jewishjamaica.com