RIJC

Apart from the A levels, the changing of name from RJC to RIJC seems to be the next most hyped up topic. Sentiments regarding the change vacillate from anger to disappointment, from nonchalance to over-enthusiasm, as Rafflesians attempt to come to grips with the change.

In any case, I believe that the merger must have been a decision that has been carefully vetted to make sure that it was an overall win-win situation, and much as we (who are ignorant of the overarching issuse) would like to dispute it, we should trust those situated at the higher echelons of the school to make the right decision.

However, trust, just like respect, is something that cannot be given by default. Trust is earned, and sometimes, it takes more than effort - it takes a collective mindset and attitude that clearly conveys that 'We are doin this for your own good. Seriously' to earn this valued trust.

For the people at the top, I do not think that they should validate decisions of such immense gravity with a simple message packaged into a letter and sent to the existing batches of Rafflesians. I said 'message' because I think using the word 'explanation' might be stretching its definition a little too wide. After all, the letter merely serves to inform rather than educate, such is the blandness of the message.

What we need is simply a clear breakdown of the benefits (i.e. CCAs can share sporting facilities instead of contesting the use of it as was the situation before the merger or perhaps the creation of a united purpose that will help facilitate discussions between board members of the different Raffles school?) and perhaps a promise that we will remain true to our fundamental values. Teachers often tell us to treat markers as if they do not know anything, and provide clear linkages and explanations in our essays. In a parallel vein, perhaps the school should follow suit and grant us the same treatment.

Alas, at the end of the day, all the outcry and affronted sense of pride will eventually evanescent. In the span of a few years, Rafflesians will start to become familiar with being identified as RIJC or RIS, and it will no longer seem so strange or foreign. Change is often resisted in the intial period of time due to our perception of alienation and marginalization. However, it will not be long before the symbols of continuity begin to re-exert their influence and cloud away these feelings of 'institutionism', returning us to the docile times of status quo. With our consciousness becoming increasingly bombarded by these new terms, we will eventually adapt and accept these changes.

We will eventually embrace the new change.