Are School Holidays Important? An Interview with TV3

School holidays are the highlights of a child’s schooling days-a period where they are temporarily free from academic commitments. While children wait for school holidays in eager and excitement, parents may find school holidays to be a ‘waste of time’ as they are worried that their children’s academic performance and productivity could be hindered, given the lengthy leisure time.

To address this, the Dean of the Faculty of Education, Languages, Psychology & Music (FoELPM), SEGi University, Prof. Datin Dr. Mariani Md Nor, was invited to participate in a live televised interview on Malaysia Hari Ini (TV3), focusing on the topic of whether school holidays are necessary for children. The interview served as a national platform for academic expertise to contribute to public discourse on education and child development.

During the live telecast, the Dean shared professional insights on the importance of school holidays in supporting children’s mental well-being, emotional development, and overall learning balance. The discussion highlighted how structured breaks from formal schooling allow children to rest, recharge, explore personal interests, and strengthen family relationships, which are essential for healthy cognitive and emotional development.

The interview further emphasised the need to balance academic demands with children’s holistic development, reinforcing that meaningful learning also occurs outside the classroom through play, social interaction, and experiential activities. By addressing common parental concerns and societal expectations related to academic performance, the Dean helped promote developmentally appropriate and child-centred educational practices.

This media engagement aligns with United Nations Sustainable Development Goal 4 (Quality Education) by advocating inclusive, equitable, and developmentally appropriate education. It also contributes to SDG 3 (Good Health and Well-being) by promoting awareness of children’s mental health, emotional resilience, and the importance of rest and balanced lifestyles.

Overall, the live interview enhanced public understanding of children’s educational and developmental needs, increased the visibility of FoELPM and SEGi University in national media, and reinforced the Faculty’s commitment to advancing education and well-being through meaningful public engagement.