Editorial | Let Children Choose Freely

In recent years, we have seen a sad rise in student suicides. Many of these children are pushed into studying subjects they do not enjoy or understand. Some parents force their children to become doctors or engineers, even when the child has no interest in those fields. This is a dangerous path. Children are under pressure to meet expectations that are not their own. As a society, we need to stop this.

Every child is different. Some love science. Some love painting. Others may enjoy working with people or writing stories. We must accept that not everyone is meant to follow the same path. When parents push children into courses they don’t like, they take away the joy of learning. The child feels trapped, hopeless, and alone. In the worst cases, they feel like ending their lives is the only escape.

We must ask ourselves: is a job title more important than a child’s life? If your child loves music, why should they be made to study math for years just to please you? If your daughter dreams of becoming a writer, why should she be told that engineering is the only “respectable” choice?

We must understand that success is not only about money or job security. A happy child who becomes a school teacher or an artist can lead a much more meaningful life than a rich but unhappy engineer or doctor. Mental health matters. Forcing a child to follow a course they hate damages their confidence and mental well-being.

It is also important to remember that the world is changing. New jobs are being created every day in areas like animation, video games, content writing, digital marketing, and more. We must let our children grow with the times and help them discover where they truly shine.

What can parents do? Talk to your children. Ask what they love. Watch what makes them happy. Give them space to explore different interests. Encourage their dreams, even if they are different from your own. It is okay if your child does not become what you had imagined. What matters more is that they live, smile, and stay mentally healthy.

Schools and teachers also play a big role. They should guide students based on their strengths, not based on what society thinks is “best.” Career counselling should be offered to help students and parents understand all the choices available.

Let us stop this dangerous habit of forcing children into careers they do not want. Let us listen to them, support them, and believe in their dreams. No career is worth more than a child’s life. It is time to change our thinking and create a world where every child feels free to follow their own path.