SECULAR EDUCATION.—A SUGGESTION.

New Zealand Herald, Volume XVI, Issue 5370, 1 February 1879, Page 6

SECULAR EDUCATION.—A SUGGESTION.

TO THE EDITOR. Sin, —I am inclined to tliink that the advocates of the Beoular system, as the proper system of national education, are wasting their powder, more or less, in newspaper controversies. Let us follow the example of older communities in this respect, and do what Is in porfect harmony with the genius of our institutions, follow the example of those who, having similar opinions, in England formed themselves into an association, with Birmingham for its centre. We will then have the advantage of combined, concentrated action. Unity iB strength. The advantages of such a step are obvious. We could establish a platform, and organise our forces. We could correspond with the Birmingham league, or any other association of a similar kind, procure the current literature bearing on the question, and, in a word, make ourselves familiar with the best arguments in support of our ideas ; and I think the time is ripe. Although we have an Act as secular as we may wish it, the principle is by no means accepted throughout the colony. A bare majority in the House of Representatives kept it intact last session, and that majority was obtained from a quarter whence it was least expected. There is sure to be a stand-up fight next session, and such an association as that which I beg to suggest would strengthen the hands of those in the House who are fighting in the cause. If 'twpre well done, when 'tis dono, 'Twcre well it were dono quickly. —lam, &c., Vkrbum Sap.