OUR GIRLS.

New Zealand Illustrated Magazine, Volume VIII, Issue 2, 1 May 1903, Page 136

OUR GIRLS.

IN a recent number, the question of culture in New Zealand Girls was touched upon. A contributor has very kindly sent an article on the University Extension Movement in Britain, which will be read with great interest by all who take note of the many ways in which the influence of women may benefit. All New Zealanders, who have become acquainted with the admirable text books of the University Extension Series, will not be

slow to remark that if such lectures could be given in our colony, much good would surely accrue to the great number of girls who have fit present no means of continuing their education. ]t is sadly true that when our girls leave school, they are either without sufficient duties to consider seriously, or are tied to a calling which absorbs so much energy, that they are incapable of studying alone. In the former case, they tend to become frivolous, gossipy and ill-balanced men-

tally. They have nothing to do in the afternoons but dress and pay calls or shop ; in the evenings to entertain or be entertained. The moments which are filled in by reading are wasted, for they read the so-called light novels which give no information to the starved mind. What wonder that girls of this class are unable to understand a sensible conversation ? No scope is offered them in their narrow life. They marry. Their husbands expect them to know nothing of any consequence, and so continue to starve their minds.

I cannot but think that these much-to-be-pitied society girls as well as their more fortunate sisters of the wage-earning class, would be glad of some recreation that would be instructive. Many of them are girls, very capable mentally, who are deprived by their surroundings of anything conducive to intellectuality. After all, the /great : majority of us recfuire guidance. Very few can take the initiative and forge ahead in loneliness. Therefore, it is certainly an ad-

mirable suggestion that we should consider the feasibility of having a system of University Extension lectures given throughout the colony. We have four Colleges, with staffs containing many men of distinction. A consistent study of English literature, a survey of ancient customs, a collection of interesting scientific facts — these and many other things would be of interest to many men and women of our community. And it would not be absolutely necessary that the professors should be the only intineraries. There are many old stud-

ents well qualified to give popular lectures on these and kindred sub jects. The question of expense would have to be considered. I have not much doubt that the Government might be induced to help in this matter. Many country districts would> I think, gladly subscribe, in order that some rays of t>he thinking world might be enjoyed by them. Much might be written on the subject, but space limits mo, and I can only commend the matter to your thoughts.