Flipchart Number 2 June 2016 | Page 16

Recognition of NFE in regression? Teachers and administration in secondary schools in Norway have generally been positively inclined towards alternative learning methods, as complementary to what goes on in the classroom. They have shown understanding and willingness to let their pupils go for youth exchanges during the school year. But, with only 10 days of concession available, would a pupil risk spending several of them for a youth exchange, when a bout of illness could bring her beyond those 10 days, thus failing her from one or more subjects? And even if she would, would the school administration continue to be as lenient and accepting of our taking along their pupils for projects of non-formal learning during the school year? 16 At a time when exposure to the intercultural, and learning more about values and attitudes, are as pertinent as ever, this new rule is adding another layer to the challenge. This implication, and others, is not lost on the pupils themselves. And they will not take it without a fight. Political youth parties all across the country have already staged strikes and demonstrations. And SSUN has already pencilled in a big demonstration in front of Parliament – on 17. June, after exams. After all, you can’t log too much absence for political engagement these days… Written by: Joakim Arnoy