Too Good too Stupid Noureddine Boutahar

I shared the proverb "I taught him archery every day... yet when his arm gained might, he aimed at me" on my Facebook page. The overwhelming response in likes and comments inspired me to create this article, drawing on Arabic resources from the Internet.

This particular proverb, well-known among Arabic-speaking intellectuals, is part of a poem with a captivating story behind it. The verses' attribution varies, with some crediting Malik ibn Fahm al-Azdi and others assigning it to Aws ibn Ma'n al-Muzani. The prevailing consensus in literary sources leans towards Ma'n ibn Aws al-Muzani as its originator.

Those linking the proverb to Malik ibn Fahm recount a tale of familial betrayal. Malik was a ruler presiding over a sprawling domain with his family at his side. Among his offspring, the youngest, Sulaimah, held a special place in his heart. Yet, within this familial tapestry, jealousy wove its treacherous threads. Driven by envy, Sulaimah's brothers deceitfully whispered accusations into their father's ears, alleging that Sulaimah neglected his guard duty. Eager to confirm these allegations, Malik, the concerned patriarch, stealthily approached to observe his son in action. Sensing an intruder, Sulaimah, with bow and arrow in hand, prepared to defend. In a heartbreaking twist, Malik's voice rang out in the darkness, pleading, "Don't shoot, I'm your father!" A fatal miscommunication followed, as Sulaimah responded with a tragic declaration: "Oh father, the arrow has reached its target." As he drew his last breath, his father uttered the now-famous verses:

 

Behold the irony of nurturing a child,
Feeding him with the delicate tips of my hand.
I taught him the art of archery every day,
Yet, when his arm gained might, he aimed at me.
The intricacies of verses I carefully taught him,
Only for his own rhyme to turn against me.
I nurtured him to embrace vitality,
Yet, when his mustache unfurled, he betrayed me.

...

The verses of this poignant poem reveal Malik's profound amazement and disbelief. He had invested his heart and wisdom in raising a child, imparting skills and knowledge, only to find himself repaid with the bitter currency of ingratitude.

The narrative brims with various themes, yet the verses resonate particularly among Arabic-speaking communities, serving as a poignant expression of disillusionment when kindness is met with harm. Similar English proverbs echo this sentiment: "Biting the hand that feeds you," "Don't throw pearls before swine," "Plant flowers in others' gardens, and your life becomes a bouquet of thorns," "The tree of kindness is often felled with the axe of ingratitude," and "The snake you charm today will bite you tomorrow."

I appreciate the phrase coined by the Shah of Iran: 'Ingratitude is the prerogative of the people.' It unfortunately suggests that a lack of gratitude is a trait often found in human nature. Some people take your kindness for granted, while others underestimate it. So, as the Russian proverb wisely advises, "Trust but check."

 

Read to Write Noureddine Boutahar

 My friend Khalid Nkhaili recently told me about his admiration for my writing and expressed curiosity about my journey in developing this skill. Well, let me take you back to the roots of my love for writing—a passion that sprouted in the fertile soil of my childhood, nurtured by my deep affection for reading.

Growing up in a serene Moroccan countryside, I attended a school with no books at home and no library to quench my literary thirst. However, my love for reading knew no bounds. As soon as I could decipher words, I eagerly devoured the Souk’s* offerings, which wrapped our groceries, vegetables, and fruit in old newspaper pieces. Those crumpled sheets became my literary treasures. I would meticulously straighten them, immersing myself in the articles within. Though I didn't fully grasp the content, occasionally stumbling upon news from my father's old transistor radio added a layer of familiarity.

Another unexpected source of reading material was the medicine boxes brought home by a sick family member. The drug information sheet became my favorite, captivating me with its dual language presentation in Arabic and French. Little did I know that this would be the starting point for my journey to becoming proficient in French, a skill that would prove valuable from my junior school days onward.

Upon moving from the countryside to the bustling city of Meknes after primary school, I discovered a true treasure—the city library. My newfound haven, the “Librairie Municipale” library, became a sanctuary where I not only read voraciously but also borrowed books to continue my literary exploration at home.

This dedicated reading routine bore fruit, significantly influencing my writing style. I began crafting compelling paragraphs and essays that garnered praise from my teachers. In junior school, my instructors, including Madame Massardier, Madame Boulanger, and Monsieur Dupont, alongside an unnamed Arabic teacher, actively encouraged my writing endeavors. Their support fueled my passion.

Transitioning to university life, influential professors like Mr. Ezzroura and Mr. Jamari continued to champion my writing in English. Their mentorship, among many others, played a pivotal role in shaping my literary journey. In one memorable instance, Mr. Jamari took the initiative to share a snippet of one of my essays with our classmates. His discerning comment echoed in my ears — a prophecy, it seemed — as he boldly declared that I was destined to be a writer. This pivotal moment not only bolstered my confidence but also ignited a flame of ambition within me.

Once I found a comfortable rhythm in expressing myself, I took the plunge into the world of “journalism”. I began submitting articles to a few Moroccan newspapers, composing them in both Arabic and French. While not a regular occurrence, the moments when my work graced the pages and captured the attention of the general public were truly gratifying. Witnessing my words in print was a source of pride, fueling my passion for sharing stories and ideas with a broader audience.

Today, acknowledging the profound impact of reading, I eagerly took steps to ensure that my children could savor its delightful rewards. The enchanting tunes of bedtime tales continue to resonate as cherished chapters in the hearts of my little ones, especially my beloved daughters. They joyfully reminisce about those bedtime adventures, considering them among the finest moments of their early years. It truly warms my heart to see that the love for reading and books has taken root in each of them.

Remarkably, one of my daughters, Rime, has emerged as a budding wordsmith, crafting exceptional articles that find a home in prestigious global publications. Witnessing her talent bloom is not just a source of parental pride but a testament to the enduring power of reading and storytelling within our family.

The bottom line, the axiom "Nemo Dat" holds true in the symbiotic relationship between reading and writing. A profound truth underscores my writing journey: one cannot master the art of writing without immersing oneself in the vast ocean of literature. Reading provides writers with ideas for structure, language, literary techniques, and effective ways to convey a writer's purpose, replenishing the creative energy needed for continued writing.

* Moroccan outdoor weekly market.

The Cat Dies on the First Day Noureddine Boutahar

An idiom is a linguistic magician, conjuring figurative wonders that transcend the literal. Shaped by the environment of their origin, these idioms carry captivating stories within them.

My friend Driss Eladouany recently posted the Moroccan idiom "The cat dies on the first day" on his Facebook page. Intrigued, I delved into its layers of meaning, realizing its depth and cultural significance. This idiom weaves back to a tale from the Moroccan countryside, a story with myriad versions each echoing the same timeless message and meaning.

Now, allow me to encapsulate the essence of the story for you:           

In the heart of the Moroccan rural area, a young man's wedding night culminated in a vibrant celebration filled with joyous dances and delectable feasts. Post-wedding, the bride gracefully transitioned into her daily routine, which included the heartwarming task of preparing breakfast for her husband before he set out to toil in the fields. Amid the fragrance of freshly steeped tea and warm ‘Harcha’ bread, a cat emerged, its meows echoing through the room. The newlywed youth, seeking to assert his authority, shooed away the persistent feline. Yet, the cat remained undeterred, its presence a challenge to his newly established dominance. In a fit of anger, he struck the innocent creature with a fatal blow.

Later, when questioned about his actions, the young man explained that he sought to establish an example for his wife, a stark reminder of the obedience expected of her. His harsh punishment served as a clear warning against defiance.

The idiom 'The cat dies on the first day' finds its echo in various English equivalents, such as 'show your true colors from the outset,' 'start as you mean to go,' 'establish a strong start,' and 'commence with the end in mind.' Yet, delving into the origins, circumstances, and the rich tapestry of tradition and culture that birthed this idiom reveals a depth that sets it apart. These English counterparts, while close, may lose their true resonance without the awareness of the unique story, tradition, and cultural nuances that define 'The cat dies on the first day.' In understanding its roots, we unlock a richer appreciation for the wisdom encapsulated in this captivating expression.

Hence, the idiom "The cat dies on the first day" surfaces as a haunting testament to the oppressive patriarchal norms that once gripped Moroccan society. Rooted in a bygone era, the tale serves as a poignant reminder of the historical status of Moroccan women—a time when they were not just subjugated but also unfairly vilified and accused of various perceived wrongs.

Idioms, in general, serve as vibrant snapshots of the rich tapestry of a language, capturing the essence of a people's environment, life, history, and culture. Rooted in the very spirit and emotions of native speakers, these linguistic gems forge an intimate connection with the historical backdrop, economic dynamics, geographical nuances, and customs of a society. In essence, idioms are not just linguistic expressions; they are windows into the soul of a language, offering profound insights into the collective experience of a community.

The Moroccan idiom 'The cat dies on the first day' unravels a cautionary tale embedded in tradition, revealing enduring lessons of power dynamics and societal expectations. Through idioms, we catch a glimpse of timeless virtues that transcend language and time.

In Defence of Teachers Noureddine Boutahar

In recent times, an unsettling trend has emerged, casting a shadow upon the noble profession of teaching and eroding the integrity of educators. Detractors paint a portrait of teachers as indolent, indifferent, and driven solely by financial motives. These allegations not only lack merit but are also a distortion of reality.

Teachers, like guardians of an educational sanctum, strive for dignity, justice, and equality. Their mission transcends the boundaries of a classroom, reaching towards a vision of a Moroccan society where public schools stand as bastions of quality education and equal opportunities for all.

Teachers, akin to luminaries guiding the path from ignorance to enlightenment, go beyond the mere dissemination of facts. They toil tirelessly to nurture critical thinking and creativity in their students, sowing the seeds of ethical values grounded in justice and responsibility.

Beyond the classroom, teachers are architects of societal and economic progress. They not only elevate the standard of education and prepare students for the challenges of the job market but also actively participate in sculpting a generation of innovative and educated youth, poised to drive economic development.

Teachers, serving as exemplars of outstanding citizenship, distinguish themselves through remarkable ethical conduct. They stand out as individuals demonstrating an unparalleled commitment to integrity and are among those least prone to corruption. Not only do teachers exhibit unblemished moral character, but they are also among the least likely to engage in tax evasions. Furthermore, their steadfast adherence to legal norms surpasses that of the general populace with respect to laws and rules. By embodying these virtues, teachers go beyond the mere transmission of knowledge, becoming pillars of ethical strength that fortify the very foundation of a just and law-abiding community. 

Regrettably, in our society, teachers find themselves unfairly caricatured, labeled as miserly individuals fixated solely on strikes, protests, and salary increments. Yet, it is these very educators who have earned prestigious awards for excellence in teaching on the global stage. Their dedication surpasses the superficial criticisms, reflecting a commitment to shaping not only the minds of students but also the future of our nation.

Today's ongoing teacher strikes are indicative of enduring frustration and a loss of confidence in the ineffective and failing reforms, much like those of 1985 and 2003. Today, these educators are not asking for opulence; rather, they seek fair compensation to execute their responsibilities with utmost effectiveness. Their plea centers around securing reasonable working conditions, providing the fertile ground necessary for the cultivation of their noble profession.

In the lively dance of education, teachers are the choreographers, twirling through criticism with grace. Let's give a standing ovation to these maestros of inspiration, orchestrating a future filled with boundless potential!

 

Secrets to Educational Triumph! Noureddine Boutahar

In my exploration of successful education systems across the globe, encompassing countries like Finland, Singapore, Germany, and Iceland, a consistent theme emerges: success isn't just a happy accident; it's the result of deliberate and strategic brilliance. These nations have artfully crafted a mosaic of practices and values, working in perfect harmony to yield extraordinary educational achievements.

A cornerstone of these successful systems is the emphasis on having high-quality educators. Teachers within these systems typically come from esteemed colleges and universities, a deliberate choice aimed at ensuring a sustained high standard of pedagogical expertise. Recognizing the pivotal role educators play, these successful systems go the extra mile to ensure fair compensation, acknowledging the significant contribution teachers make in shaping the future generation.

Moreover, these cultures place an undeniably significant value on education, recognizing it not merely as a means to personal development but as a crucial tool for broader economic advancement. This societal mindset fosters a deep-seated commitment to the pursuit of educational excellence.

In these systems, equality stands as a guiding principle, with nearly all students attending public schools, effectively minimizing the disparities that often characterize the schism between private and public education. Complementing this commitment to equality are the deliberately small class sizes, averaging around 20 students. Furthermore, up to three teachers may be present in a class, with one dedicated specifically to assisting struggling students, thereby providing personalized support.

An additional testament to the commitment to nurturing relationships is the prolonged interaction between teachers and students. Teachers often remain with the same group of students for up to five years, ensuring a sense of continuity and familiarity. This extended relationship allows teachers to intimately understand the strengths and weaknesses of each student, contributing to a more tailored and effective learning experience.

Formal education in these countries takes a departure from conventional practices by commencing at the age of seven. This intentional delay allows ample time for play and exploration during a child's formative years, recognizing the importance of holistic development beyond academic pursuits.

Another distinctive feature is the limited emphasis on testing, with formal exams deferred until the age of 16. This aligns with a pivotal juncture where students undergo assessments to guide their career or college choices. This intentional approach alleviates the pressure of testing, providing students with the freedom to develop holistically without the burden of excessive assessments.

The well-designed and balanced daily schedules in these systems, extending from 8:00 to 14:30 with a 30-minute lunch break, lay the foundation for an optimal learning environment. Firstly, they promote active involvement in extracurricular activities and the pursuit of personal interests, contributing to a more comprehensive and enriching educational experience. Secondly, by preventing students from spending the entire day at school, the schedules mitigate the risk of developing a disdain for the learning environment, preventing it from turning into a snoozy, prison-like scene that nobody wants to be in.

Streamlining education programs and curricula is a hallmark of these successful systems. By concentrating on essential subjects, knowledge, and skills while minimizing unnecessary complexities and workload for students, these systems guarantee a well-rounded and meaningful education.

Last but not least, the commitment to state support for teachers in these successful systems is palpable through various initiatives that ensure favorable working conditions. For instance, comprehensive professional development programs are offered to educators, equipping them with the latest teaching methodologies and tools. Additionally, the provision of modern classroom resources, such as interactive technology and up-to-date textbooks, exemplifies the dedication to supplying teachers with the necessary materials to facilitate effective learning environments.

In stark contrast to our education systems that commodify and devalue teachers, successful and ideal educational systems recognize the profound significance of quality educators, equal opportunities, and a holistic approach to student development. Without these key elements, our dream of a successful and nurturing educational environment for the future is just a whimsical fantasy. Without genuine reform, we will persist in passing the blame like a game of hot potato, tossing responsibility between us until the day when everything inevitably crumbles!

AI is Teachers' New Bud Noureddine Boutahar

In the realm of education, there exist three distinct groups of teachers: some who find comfort in the familiarity of their established routines, some who display hesitation when it comes to embracing the unknown, and individuals like myself, who possess a natural inclination for exploring innovative approaches. These distinctions become particularly evident in the context of incorporating Artificial Intelligence (AI) into education, which is not only indispensable but also timesaving and transformative.

First of all, AI has become an indispensable part of our lives, permeating various aspects of society and reshaping our methods of work, communication, interaction with technology, as well as teaching and learning. Those who resist it today are just mirroring the mindset of the small-minded Internet Luddites from the early days of this millennium. Like it or not, Artificial Intelligence is poised to assume a central role in the field of education because it is increasingly recognized as a transformative force that can enhance teaching efficacy and learning outcomes. In education, AI plays an inexorably imperative role, rendering resistance akin to tilting at windmills and ultimately anchoring us to the past.

Secondly, AI offers vast transformative potential for language education. It stands to enhance its efficiency and effectiveness, providing language teachers with powerful tools to create more engaging and successful learning lessons for their students. AI algorithms can revolutionize teaching and learning by enabling personalized and adaptive instruction. Besides, AI-powered tools can offer instant feedback on various language aspects like pronunciation, grammar, and vocabulary, allowing students to address their weaknesses in real time. Moreover, AI can provide a wealth of resources, for both teachers and students, such as interactive language applications, chatbots, and language translation services, which make language learning more engaging and accessible. It also has the capability to collect and analyze vast amounts of data, helping teachers identify learning styles and adjust their teaching methods accordingly. Overall, and to echo George Couros, AI will not replace great teachers but it will make them more transformational.

Thirdly, AI has the potential to both save time for teachers and alleviate their time constraints. It can aid teachers in saving time by providing services like summarizing lengthy content and generating video transcripts in the blink of an eye. It can create level-relevant tests, games, and exercises in a split second. Moreover, it can adjust the formality, tone, and style of written content immediately, and address individual student requirements instantly and free teachers from the 'one size fits all' model. Additionally, AI can make lesson planning more efficient by offering the most up-to-date and insightful methods and strategies available in no time.  It can also offer thought-provoking discussion prompts for both discussions and written assignments in a heartbeat, enhancing the overall teaching experience. Is there anything on Earth that could possibly top this? Isn't it absolutely worth giving it a shot.

Fourthly, in a constantly evolving world, marked by shifting trends and evolving societal norms, it is imperative for educators to acknowledge that times change, and consequently, people change as well. To remain effective and relevant in their roles, educators should avoid isolating themselves from embracing tools and practices that have become ubiquitous in the wider community like AI. AI is increasingly asserting its influence and is poised to take the lead in the field of education, without a shadow of doubt. So, any teacher who hesitates to leverage its power is essentially failing to adapt. Any teacher who is reluctant to play students at their own game is fundamentally refusing to change. In Charles Darwin’s words, “It is not the strongest of the species that survives, nor the most intelligent; it is the one most responsive to change.” Therefore, the ability to adapt and stay current is not merely a choice but a necessity for educators seeking to excel in their profession.

In a nutshell, AI has become the must-have superhero in the world of language teaching, swooping in to create a super fun, super accessible, and super flexible educational experience. It's a win-win for teachers and students, making learning a blast!

Desperate and Angry, Moroccan Teachers React: Noureddine Boutahar

Poor students! They are trapped in an oscillation, back and forth like a pendulum between home and school. This daily commute has become a routine part of their life all due to the justified strikes by their teachers. These strikes are a result of the pigheaded Education Minister's misguided devotion to his failing Fundamental System, treating it like a treasured relic. 

In response, teachers have decided to go on strike to voice their complaints after years of unparalleled patience and false façade peace. But why, you ask? Well, it's quite simple: The darn mountain put in all that effort, and what do we get? A measly, pathetic mouse, as the Arabic saying goes. 

Teachers have finally had their fill of the government's ingenious reforms in the educational system. The government, in its boundless wisdom, decided to take a bulldozer to the existing educational system. They went all out and tore it down completely with this baleful Fundamental System.

On the other side, educators, in their stubborn insistence on having a well-functioning system, have the audacity to demand better working conditions, fair pay, and resources for their students. Is it too much? Are they asking for the moon?

For decades, these educators have been making sacrifices they see as acts of dedication, willingly offering extra hours, extending their efforts beyond their job descriptions, assuming additional responsibilities to enhance their institutions, and even dipping into their personal resources to procure teaching materials, from pens and beyond. Unfortunately, those in positions of authority have misinterpreted these acts of commitment as signs of submission and vulnerability. The government took an inch for every mile the teachers gave it.

Initially, the Fundamental System was implemented discreetly and fell significantly short of teachers' expectations. It also entailed an increased workload for teachers, provided no salary raises, and introduced an extensive list of punitive measures that seem more fitting for dealing with bandits than dedicated educators! Moreover, it slapped teachers with a whopping 38 percent increase in income taxes. In addition, extra responsibilities were added to teachers' already demanding roles, making their workload even more overwhelming. Furthermore, the system made the already challenging path to career promotion even more torturous, to put it mildly. Lastly, and to add insult to injury, the system provided salary increases to administrators, while leaving teachers out in the cold!

This shows that our government has a very different vision for reform, one that avoids tackling the root issues and devising creative approaches to fix an education system in shambles. One such vision involves applying a fresh coat of paint, labeling it as 'reform,' and hoping that everyone will be fooled. The other is embracing an attitude dripping with arrogance, provocation, and intimidation instead of trying to put out the fire of a heated battle. Another one is unabashedly churning out one infuriating memorandum after another in record time, adding fuel to the blazing fire of discontent.

For surely, in the minister’s pursuit of his educational utopia, he decided to fly solo. This decision is set to cause a meteoric rise in discontent among the educators. The reckless wasting of invaluable instructional time will be elevated to an art form, and the utter ruination of the futures of those despairing students from humble backgrounds will be the crown jewel in Ben Moussa’s grand opus.

In conclusion, we can only hope for a collective awakening of conscience regarding the ongoing crisis in the Moroccan education system. It is crucial to prevent further damage to our own national interests. However, it is noteworthy that this is a pivotal moment for reform, and seizing this opportunity is very imperative. Failure to do so could have undesirable repercussions for generations to come.