Q&A: New VSK chair on the advantages of homeschooling

Why did you decide to finish your secondary studies from home?

I felt that the school environment was not addressing my specific needs. I lost motivation because the system did not give me enough flexibility to follow my personal interests. Frequently, the lessons also lacked depth, with no time to link topics to current events or to have discussions. I shared my concerns at the school, and even moved to another, but to no avail.

Would you recommend homeschooling to other students?

It works for me, but it wouldn’t be a solution for everyone. You gain independence and freedom, but that also means you need a lot of self-discipline to prepare for the exams to earn a diploma before the Exams Commission.

I’m not here to argue in favour of home education, but it is my responsibility to explain what that entails. I am motivated by the fact that I can arrange my agenda more flexibly and decide if I want to explore certain topics in more depth. Now, for example, I have more time for philosophy lessons.

Your father is from Nigeria. How has your migration background influenced your education?

I have not experienced discrimination to a large extent, but I often felt like I had to prove myself more than other students. In primary school, there was a teacher who did not have any trust in my capacities because of my migration background, but VSK has been battling discrimination for a long time, and I am contributing to this fight.

Do you know what you want to do after graduation?

Not really, although I’m interested in European Studies. I also enjoy writing and won this year’s Junior Journalist competition, organised by the culture network Davidsfonds. But I’m not sure if I want to write for a living.

Photo courtesy Céline Ibe/Facebook