What moral education is about

While it is commendable that schools are placing great emphasis on graciousness and respect, it is just the tip of the iceberg when it comes to moral and character education ("School's emphasis on morals, values" by Mr Alan Goh; last Friday).

Moral education means teaching children that the right thing to do is sometimes the unpopular thing to do, but they should have the courage to do it anyway.

It means imbuing children with a broader sense of responsibility, not only for their actions and words, but also for their family, community and perhaps even the world.

It means helping children realise that they must stand up against injustice, even if it means standing up to authority.

But more importantly, moral education is about teaching children how to respect those who can do nothing for them, and help people without expecting anything in return.

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