A few observations...

Education in the Arab world is not only appalling, but is extremely funny as well!! Working in an arab university has really helped me appreciate the education system in my home country, simply due to the proven fact of the quality of students that graduate.

The education system here has its own sense of humour, and trust me, it can leaving you wondering, "is it worth it?". I'm not generalising because there are a quite few commendable students whom I personally know of and I feel they are worth their degree certificate, but the rest....Big Sigh!!

First of, its funny when a prospective student calls up for admission and says, "I wanth arabeek, you no have arabeek??...walla hadim", when its clearly obvious to any literate person, that the university is English medium.

Then, they insist on doing their Bachelors/Masters even when their command of English is deplorable.

Next is when they actually get accepted into the university (!!). They demand for teachers of their own choice. If not, they submit in their complaints. They demand for easy exams and better marks. If not, they ask for that particular teacher to be removed. I have seen their exam papers.3 words: "oh my goodness".

What really boggles is my mind is that there are students who are so very talented, yet I feel that either they do not know how to use their talents constructively or that they feel they should exhibit their talents only if there is an incentive involved. I still remember my college days when we'd just wait for our college to host inter-collegiate culturals or for another rival college to hold theirs just to go over and prove our worth. Not only did it involve a hell lot of fun, but it also helped most of us get rid of our stage fears and realise our hidden talents. Moreover, wouldn't a CV look good when it shows that you are also involved in extra-curricular activites??!!!

well, anyways...it's kinda cool to see now that, there are some students who are ready and really want to make a change in this otherwise close-minded culture. These students want to make a difference, make other kids realise that college life is more than just the latest nail enamel color or fastest car!! College life is more than 'only' books and lectures. College life is, in my personal opinion, the golden years of one's life. If a kid wisely chooses the right friends' circle and knows how to juggle between books and fun, college life is awesome!!!! (i take a break here as I reminisce my college days-- wish i could turn back time!!! *sigh* )

hmmm..I really hope to see some changes in the uni I work...but most of all, I hope that the kids who want to make difference won't lose hope and see that in the long run, .....it's all worth it!! My best wishes to them...!