1. Respect for Individual Choice: Reading is a personal choice, and individuals should be allowed to choose the literature that interests them. Forcing them to read Rizal's works may violate their autonomy and sense of personal freedom.
2. Relevance and Context: The effectiveness of reading Rizal's works may depend on the context and purpose. Students may find it more meaningful to engage with Rizal's writings if they understand the historical and cultural background of the Philippines during his time. Simply mandating the reading of his works without providing proper context may not yield the intended educational benefits.
3. Diverse Perspectives: Exposing students to a variety of perspectives and authors is essential for fostering critical thinking and intellectual growth. While Rizal's writings are significant, they should not be the exclusive focus of literary education. Students should have the opportunity to explore works from different genres, time periods, and cultural backgrounds to develop a more well-rounded understanding of literature and history.
4. Potential Resistance: Enforcing mandatory reading may lead to resistance and negative associations with Rizal's works. Students may perceive it as a burden or a form of indoctrination, which could undermine their willingness to engage with the material.
5. Accessibility: Not all individuals may have equal access to Rizal's works or the necessary resources to understand and appreciate them. Socioeconomic factors, language barriers, and learning disabilities can create barriers to reading and comprehension, making it challenging to ensure inclusivity.
6. Educational Approaches: Instead of forcing students to read Rizal's works, educators should focus on developing effective teaching strategies that encourage students' interest in literature and cultural heritage. Interactive discussions, engaging activities, and connecting Rizal's writings to contemporary issues can make the learning experience more relevant and enjoyable.
In conclusion, while Rizal's works are undoubtedly significant in understanding Philippine history and culture, coercing the new generation to read them may not be the most effective approach. Encouraging students to explore Rizal's writings through contextually relevant and engaging educational methods while respecting individual choice and diverse perspectives is a more viable strategy for promoting literary appreciation and cultural awareness.