Transforming Education: A Weapon Against Hate Speech
Education Science and Technology Minister, Ashok Kumar Rai, emphasized the significance of education as a potent tool for mitigating misinformation, discrimination, and hate speech. He expressed this stance during his address at the South Asian sub-regional program, which was held in the capital on the 5th of June 2023, Tuesday, to commemorate the International Day Against Hate Speech.
Education: Building an Inclusive, Tolerant, and Civilized Society
Minister Rai advocated for a comprehensive educational approach to manage hate speech and associated consequences effectively. He firmly believes in the capacity of education to shape a highly inclusive, tolerant, and civilized society.
Minister Rai proposed incorporating communication literacy into both formal and informal education curriculums as a means to eradicate hate speech throughout the educational sphere. He maintains that a thorough understanding of communication can counteract the spread of hateful discourse.
Digital Literacy and IT in Formal Education
In light of the rapidly evolving digital world, the government has integrated digital literacy and information technology into formal education curriculum. Minister Rai, however, stressed that this initiative should not stop here. "Empowering students with digital knowledge and skills, in addition to basic communication literacy and specific life skills necessary for the 21st century, is imperative," he said.
The Negative Impact of Hateful Expressions
The Minister expressed concern about the deleterious effects of hate speech on society, pointing out that hateful expressions often stifle creativity and obstruct personal and societal progress. He further cautioned that such expressions could infringe on fundamental values, such as equality, self-respect, and dignity, that are cornerstones of a civilized society.
South Asia: A Region Rich in Diversity
Minister Rai acknowledged the unique blend of diverse languages, religions, cultures, traditions, and values within the South Asian region. Despite the constitution and laws of Nepal ensuring freedom of expression and information, he reiterated that expressions of hate, discrimination, and contempt would not be tolerated under the guise of freedom.
United Nations Perspective: Curricular Changes Required
Echoing Minister Rai's sentiments, Hana Singer, the resident representative of the United Nations, opined that the elimination of hate speech necessitates changes in current curriculum and educational materials. Representatives from several Asian countries, including Sri Lanka and the Maldives, actively participated in the conference, echoing the shared objective of mitigating hate speech through comprehensive educational strategies.
