W.E.A. CLASSES.

Waikato Times, Volume 101, Issue 16946, 8 November 1926, Page 8

W.E.A. CLASSES.

(To the Editor.) Sic, —It is with regret I read of the result of the deliberation of the General Purposes Committee, of tho Borough Council when dealing with the above. It makes one wonder whether the same committee was capable of dealing with such a vital and important subject as supporting financially the W.B.A. classes in Hamilton. To my mind, the time is opportune for a big move forward. In England the W.E.A. is but one of a large number of associations which, arc interesting themselves in adult education. In New Zealand we are tho only body working for a cultural education for the general populace. We must not allow the movement to fall into a rut and become narrow in its aims. The possibilities of expansion are unlimited if we refuse to allow ourselves to be prisoned and confined by tradition and a castiron constitution. I would ask, does the education that an average New Zealander receives fit him to do his duty to this wonderful Empire to which he belongs? He was taught how proud be should be to be a citizen of the greatest Empire the world lias ever known. With this glorious vision of our Empire, arc wc not inclined to rest upon our laurels? Is there no educational institution, that will encourage every student to take tho welfare of his country and of his fellow men to heart? What about the W.E.A.? A boy is taught lo think and reason while lie is at school, but when he leaves, it is farewell to books, thinking and reasoning. Some additional education is necessary to let him see how to use his earlier education to the best advantage. The average person never thinks seriously, and does not read anything unless it is amusing or particularly interesting to him. He does not read to gain knowledge of the past or present problems of the outside world, or that he may be a broadminded and well-read man. Such is not his ambition. He does not wish to be brought face to face with the master mind of all ages. He seems to sec nothing in life but the gratification of passing excitement. Is the race under modern conditions declining in all the vigorous virtues of true manliness? Well, can our W.E.AI tutors give their students that additional education which will help them to seek for the tilings that are higher? Can they prepare us for the challenge of a new' and ever-growing intelligence? Gan they help us to five a new and fuller social life? Can they let sec that there are problems to be solved which require the honest attention of every worthy citizen. The majority of tutors who take up this work are able to give us a view or these higher problems, and they an the movement deserve our highest praise and every encouragement from the student, the State, and other well wishers. I extend a hearty invitation to our worthy councillors to join the WEA. class next session and help forward tho marmtv Hamilton, November 6, 1926.