19. The Martyrdom of the Child

Episode 19 of "Nimma Maguvina Bagge Nimagenu Tilidirabeku" delves into compulsory education and its profound impact on children. The text highlights that, despite the good intentions behind education, it often becomes a burden, compromising children's health and happiness. It points out that the current education system has led to both physical and mental illnesses in children without addressing the root causes of these issues.

The chapter then describes a cautious period where protective measures were introduced to safeguard children from physical harm, yet these measures failed to tackle the deeper systemic problems within education. It discusses how some believed that reducing the quantity and quality of education might ease children's difficulties, but this approach resulted in a lack of knowledge and discipline.

The text concludes by asserting that education must be rooted in freedom, self-development, and societal service. It emphasizes that true freedom for a child lies in the joy of learning, achievement, and service. The importance of understanding and respecting the laws of nature and society is underscored to promote the well-being and development of children. The chapter calls for society to awaken its conscience and take responsibility for protecting and liberating children in their educational journey. In doing so, education can transform into a source of pleasure rather than pain for children.