“The person who is educated is the one who has learned how to learn …and change”
I really feel that we are blessed and fortunate that we are witnessing the history being created. The introduction of National Education Policy is indeed a revolutionary decision on the part of the Government and other stakeholders who designed the policy completely in sync with the modern-day demands wherein the learners are in dire need of honing their skills to come at par with the world. Moreover, the long-cherished dream of our father of nation Mahatma Gandhi and Honorable Prime Minister, Shri Narendra Modi which completely resonates with the core philosophy of being Swadeshi or indigenous also appears to be materializing now which is a good sign for every Indian to see. Once implemented, it will surely direct us to new reforms and we will get over from the education system which is limited by the filter of few. It is being perceived as the first step for reshaping the demand of long pending demand of every Indian.
The policy points out at making every child learning at least one vocational skill and exposed to several more, it will certainly open the doors and take us towards ‘Made in India’ and ultimately AatmaNirbhar Bharat. The policy’s focus on overhauling the curriculum, knowledge-based Board exams, rationalization of the syllabus to retain “core essentials” and thrust on “experiential learning and critical thinking” are really remarkable decisions.
A sampling of important vocational crafts, such as carpentry, electric work, metalwork, gardening, pottery making, etc., as decided by States and local communities during Grades 6-8 as mentioned in the policy, will be a boon for the learners to recognize their talent and if this followed strictly then, by 2025, at least 50% of learners through the school and higher education system shall have exposure to vocational education which will take them towards becoming self-reliant which should be the real essence of every education system.
Another aspect that I wish to point out is that is has diversified Higher education in India and led to rebuilding itself to make ‘New India’ as one of the vibrant knowledge economies of the world. New Education Policy has now reconstructed itself as a network of research, knowledge, and training knotted with the deep wisdom of social responsibilities, encouraging community involvement and social participation. The best higher education institutions of the world such as those in the US and the UK work as knowledge centres that facilitate social change in society. They also appear as a job provider and development facilitator and the same is going to be in India soon which is a welcome decision for all of us.
Experiential learning, which has been emphasized, includes hands-on learning, arts-integrated and sports-integrated education, story-telling-based pedagogy, among others, as standard pedagogy. Classroom communication has been directed towards competency-based learning, which I feel, are the pillars for self-reliance.
The real challenge lies in the implementation of the policy, but I am sure that stakeholders all across the country are highly enthusiastic about achieving the targets. I feel this policy is going to bring notable transformations and will make every learner feel empowered and skilled rather than being administrators only. It has proved that “An investment in knowledge always pays the best interest.”
