Most
new students are allowed to pass through the school gates almost unnoticed.
When you’re the grandson of an Emperor, though, it’s all very different, as
Princess Aiko of Japan discovered as she embarked on a high profile journey from the Palace to
the schoolroom.
Wearing the red, white and blue uniform of Gakushuin Primary School, the
six-year-old princess was accompanied by her parents, Crown Prince Naruhito and
Crown Princess Masako, as she made the short walk from nearby Togu Palace,
where the family live, to the school in Minato-ku.
The princess later joined 131 other new students in pledging that: "From today,
we are first graders at Gakushuin Primary School. We will be good children."
Comment: Good citizen training begins young in Japan - as it should everywhere . Pity more nations do not follow suit
Name: Monika
Comment: Emily, there's a time to follow and a time to lead. And, IMHO, a good leader appreciates what it's like to follow.
Name: Trudie
Comment: Emily I disagree with you. I think that pledge is intended for the children to understand that being good is to study and work hard to become a leader.
Name: Donovan
Comment: What a nice pledge. The children can understand what they're saying.
In the US they pledge allegiance to the flag. Most 1st grade pupils have no idea what they're saying, but every child knows how to be a good child.
I like it!!
Name: Monika
Comment: "...We will be good children." Hmmm... Not a bad idea...
Name: Emily Elizabeth Windsor-Cragg
Comment: Horrifying.
What they will learn how to do is be followers instead of leaders.
