“BURNISHED IDEALS"

New Zealand Times, Volume XLIV, Issue 10207, 18 February 1919, Page 3

“BURNISHED IDEALS"

Three of New. Zealand’s University professors, camouflaged respectively a* » sergeant, a corporal, and a private, attended a conference of educationists from the New Zealand soldiers’ camps tn England- a short time ago (write* • correspondent in the Auckland "Star”).' At this; conference, explained Captain Kirk. Director of Education, New Zealand Forces, in- the Westminster Central Hall last Tuesday, advice and assistance were given , with regard to the establishment of classes in all the camps. The problem dealt .with bv the New Zealand Army education scheme is that of keeping the. troops engaged, when militaryexercise are purposeless, and when it u lime to turn the thoughts, of . thp.men to pursuits of peace. Already -the Wick and wounded have made progress from needlenioTk f.n bed to wood-carving and'-rafla weaving outoire, and cabinetmaking,—drawing, designing. and a dozen other useful occupations : have been . taught. Limbless men have overcome their indifference, and, in one.class an cx-farm worker who lost his left arm, and, has only the thumb on. the right .hand, has learnt to write shorthand at the .rate of 70 words a minute. Blind soldiers go to St Dun»tan s, where thev receive light and guidance, to the. realms of' self-support. Training in useful vocations has beep, given .to.many New Zealand sick, wounded and convalescent soldiers, wh# are .also taught how best to exercise their privileges 'ns citizens. These men, ,-vuvs Captain Kirk, will bo sent home wffh' burnished ideals and a new inspiration for high citizenship.