Ott Ojaveer, the long-serving director of Hugo Treffner Gymnasium, expresses gratitude for a recent honor while highlighting that the achievements belong to the entire school community, not just himself, and voices concerns about the changing priorities in education.
Ott Ojaveer, who has been a significant figure at Hugo Treffner Gymnasium in Tartu, Estonia, has recently been recognized as an honorary citizen and awarded the Tartu Star Medal. While he appreciates the honor, he emphasizes that such accolades reflect the collective effort of the school rather than individual achievement. Treffner, being one of Estonia's oldest and most esteemed schools, has had a profound impact on education in the region.
Despite its historical status, Ojaveer has expressed worries about the evolving landscape of education, where traditional teaching roles and priorities seem to be increasingly sidelined. He notes that the pressures on modern education systems can detract from the core mission of teaching. This sentiment reflects a broader discussion about the values and goals within educational institutions today.
As the anniversary of Free Estonia approaches, Ojaveer’s recognitions spark reflection on not just personal achievements but the challenges faced by schools like Treffner. The ongoing dialogue around education in Estonia highlights the importance of maintaining a focus on teaching, learning, and community involvement amidst changing societal values and educational demands.
