Beyond Academics: The Kindness We Overlook in Education
Imagine walking onto campus and seeing everyone fiercely competing for grades and recognition. The pressure is immense, and the focus is entirely on academic success. Yet amidst all the rush of university life, do we sometimes leave kindness behind? In a world filled with deadlines and educational achievements, kindness goes unnoticed. Small acts of support and care truly shape our learning experiences. These moments may not appear in the script but leave a lasting impact.
Education also includes developing empathy, and compassion. A culture of kindness builds and creates an inclusive and respectful campus. Research shows that students who feel emotionally safe and valued concentrate well. Collaborative learning upgrades intellectual growth.
University life comes with immense pressure. Peer support and small gestures of compassion promote a healthier mindset. Scientific findings reveal that kindness enhances serotonin release and helps regulate stress hormones. Nurturing students into compassionate leaders creates a ripple effect beyond campus.
Why is kindness neglected? In the fast-paced academic setting, students get lost in chaos. Sometimes competitiveness creates hindrances. It is not inherently negative but being competitive while maintaining kindness is essential. Otherwise, it makes a gap in understanding and responding to the needs of others. Moreover, there is a struggle to ask for help. Developing an environment where asking for help is encouraged and not feared brings a practical angle. In a world that often equates toughness with success, showing kindness feels like a fear of being “too soft”. The truth is, it is not a weakness. It is a powerful force that transforms both individuals and qualities.
“Kindness in the field of education is what I value. It is the greatest quality at the core of human existence,” says Dr. Sabiha Huq (Professor, ENH). She shared a thoughtful perspective on practicing this. You may come across individuals who seem withdrawn or show signs of psychological struggles—approach them with compassion and treat them kindly. However, stay mindful, as some people may try to take advantage.
Saikat Rahman Asif (Junior, CS) says, “To enhance the practice of kindness, one can join a community service club or relevant social organizations on campus. Certain courses, like those in general education or CST, emphasize its importance throughout academic life.” Hence, these opportunities provide hands-on experience in fostering kindness in real-life situations.
The accurate measure of an educational environment is not just in marks or achievements but in how we treat each other. When we embrace kindness, we transform our campus into a place where individuals can flourish intellectually and emotionally.
