I REFER to the letter 'Pupils overwhelmed with schoolwork and activities' by Mrs Linda Chan Aik Hoon (my paper, Jan 25).

Singaporean parents are always lamenting how their children are busy with schoolwork and how it will affect their childhood.

Are we being too soft on our next generation?

Our education system, no matter how rigid and nonsensical it may seem at times, provides good, solid foundations.

More importantly, it inculcates in our children the values of hard work, discipline and merit.

These are all the qualities of a successful person, regardless of how highly-educated he or she is.

Moreover, our education system provides ample opportunities - including scholarships - for our young to develop their abilities to the fullest.

All that is needed is a willing mind to succeed.

Perhaps, parents should take a step back and think about their children's future, instead of focusing on the current pain they are going through.

Mr Andy Toh Xinguang