HE's free from stains who seeks no gains— I didn't understand the maxim at all when it was penned down in my autograph book by my Chinese teacher when I was graduating from secondary school, nor have I ever approached that moral height later. For years, I just cherished those wise words as a hope so fondly put on me by one who had been brought up with a conventional Chinese-medium education. Now the memories have been revived by the recent controversy over the intended bond-breaking by a number of scholars. (6/8/2000)
The author, a Lianhe Zaobao correspondent, visited various parts of the Alpine country on the Singapore- Switzerland Youth Exchange Programme last month. Apart from the extending mountain ranges and the breathtaking beauty of nature, what does Swiss Confederation possess that commands admiration? To the author, the country owes its distinctive charm chiefly to — its people. (01/08/2000)
ONCE again, the registration of next year's primary 1 pupils is in full swing, keeping many parents anxious that their kids may not get into one of those elite schools. Herein is much for the public to chew on. Should education enable people to begin their life's race on a level field from a common starting line by granting each a fair share of the resources available, or should it allow some of them to benefit from their parents' power and influence to win the competition? (23/7/2000) (来源:遥英语学习网站 http://www. 2hzz. com)
IN 1996, one would probably define new economy as an economy powered by technology. Now, five years later, various new advancements are calling for a modified view. It is true that new economy is driven by technology, but that is not all. A spirit of innovation and initiative is also fueling its progress. (19/07/2000)