Teacher Jy Marie stresses education’s role in raising socially conscious youth

Viral Gen Z educator Teacher Jy Marie, popularly known as “Wkwkwkwk,” called on young people to take an active role in building a society free from discrimination and poverty, stressing that education remains a powerful tool for shaping future generations.

“Hangga’t kaya mo pang turuan ang bata, hangga’t nakikinig pa sila, may pag-asa pa,” he said during his recent guest appearance on “From the Heart with DJ Chacha.”

Known for incorporating humor, pop culture, and relatable commentary into his lessons, Teacher Jy, whose real name is Aaron Jy E. Macalisang, argued that teaching should go beyond academic instruction and encourage students to develop principles that shape how they engage with society.

“Mas nang-uuga ako ng damdamin nila aside sa nagtatanim ng critical thinking,” he shared.

He also challenged the tendency to leave the responsibility of fixing society to future generations, reminding young people that their actions today will determine the conditions their children will inherit.

He further emphasized the importance of building a society that future generations would not have to struggle to change.

“Ang una ninyong magiging kasalanan sa inyong magiging anak ay hindi kayo bumuo ng lipunan at bayan na malaya sa diskriminasyon, sa kahirapan,” he said.

On generational differences, Teacher Jy argued that changing social conditions inevitably influence children’s personalities and values. He questioned why older generations continue to measure today’s youth against experiences that no longer reflect their realities.

“So bakit hindi na lang natin tanggapin ang constant na pagbabago?” he asked.