Competition among schools is a subject that polarises opinion. On the one hand, there are those who feel that constructive competition induces students to test their capabilities, become stronger, and compete to excel. Others believe that it breeds undue tension and adversely affects the mental health of students.
Proponents of competition frequently argue that it simulates life itself, wherein effort and performance frequently pay off. According to them, competing with others is an effective way to instill valuable life skills, such as goal-setting, time management, and persistence. For certain individuals, competition can be very stimulating, encouraging them to do more than they would in a less rigorous environment.
Critics say that such comparison is bound to create anxiety, burnout, and even fear of failure. Not everybody does well under pressure, and the fear of not being good enough sometimes overwhelms the joy of learning for some. Rather than concentrating on their individual development or creativity, students start focusing on grades and ranking. This can prove particularly debilitating in young children, who are still finding their self-worth.
In my view, there must be a balance. Though some competition can be good and even motivating, it shouldn’t be done at the expense of a student’s happiness. Learning should be about learning, curiosity, and development—rather than victory. Establishing a system where students are motivated to try their best without always being compared to peers could possibly yield more substantive and long-term achievement.