News
Exploring Teacher Training In Remote India
It is a foregone conclusion that the poor quality of education in rural schools will surely affect the employability of rural youth. And this is the outcome of the poor training given to teachers in the remote rural areas.
Published
4 years agoon
By
Shukla Bose
With a great deal of sadness and shame, one has to agree with the Nobel Laureate economist Dr Amarthya Sen’s observations shared at London School of Economics, that “India is the only country in the world which is trying to be the global economic power with an uneducated and unhealthy labour force." This is not just idle talk but a reality that is facing us all. Of the 280 million children in the world who are not going to school, 80 million children come from India alone. And the tragic trajectory of only 35% attendance in government schools, especially in the rural areas, and more than 61% drop-out by the time the students reach secondary school is further perpetuated because we have such ill-trained and demotivated teachers right across the country.
As a contrast, India could actually be in a position to boast of one of the largest education systems in the world. There are nearly 5.98 lakh primary schools, 76 lakh elementary schools and 98,000 higher secondary schools in the country. We have about 1300 teacher training institutes for elementary teachers and nearly 700 colleges of education preparing teachers for secondary and higher secondary schools. Out of about 4.52 million teachers in the country, nearly 3 million are teaching at the elementary level. This huge machinery is something to boast about but unfortunately, in this number game, what is severely lacking is the quality of teaching and learning.
In rural India, almost half of grade V students cannot read a grade II text and more than 70% of them cannot carry out the simple division. A common feature across the Indian education system is a shortage of qualified teachers. With nearly one in six elementary school teachers not professionally trained, India must improve its spending on teacher training. It is sad that just 2% of the 2018-19 budget allocated for Samagra Shiksha Abhiyan (‘holistic education program’) was spent on teachers’ training institutes.
Right to Education Act of 2009 (Section 23) had mandated that all government school-teachers should possess minimum qualifications laid down by the National Council of Teacher Education. Under guidelines released in November 2010, those not qualified were given time until March 31, 2015, to complete their training. Yet, in 2015-16, of 6.6 million teachers employed at the elementary level, 1.1 million were untrained. Of these, 5,12,000 were in government and aided schools and 5,98,000 in private schools. At the secondary school level, of 2 million teachers, around 14% were not professionally qualified, according to the education ministry.
Poor employability is a direct outcome of poor education. With 70% of India’s workforce residing in rural areas, it is rural India that will form the majority of tomorrow’s workforce. NITI Aayog estimates that half of the total Indian population is expected to be in rural India by 2050. Right now a major cause for rural to urban migration is the search for better employment opportunities in cities. The net migration from rural to urban areas is about 20 lakh per annum, of which 10 lakh are expected to be job-seekers as per MSS Research. During this current pandemic we saw for the first time, a reverse migration happens when the labourers lost their jobs because of the lockdown and slowing of the economy. They were evicted from their houses because of non-payment of rents, and could not manage three square meals a day. If the education in the rural areas were up to the mark and the rural youth were employable both in the villages and cities then this social churn would not have happened. It is a foregone conclusion that the poor quality of education in rural schools will surely affect the employability of rural youth. And this is the outcome of the poor training given to teachers in the remote rural areas.
Large proportions of untrained teachers, both at the elementary and the secondary level, exist in the remote areas of West Bengal, Bihar, Jharkhand, Uttar Pradesh and Chhattisgarh. The story is not too different in the remote areas of other states as well. The reasons for this is simple, there has been very little systematic planning to ensure that teaching as a profession is valued and respected and therefore attracts the best talent. The reality is that teaching has not been the first choice of career for most teachers for a few decades now. It is viewed as a stopgap arrangement and a convenient career choice for women. The magical ingredient of passion is sorely lacking amongst most teachers. In remote parts of the country, it is even more difficult to reach out to teachers both for pre-service and in-service training. The share of teachers’ education budget in school budget has consistently declined from 1.3% in 2009-10 to 1.1% in 2018-19 showing that teachers’ training has been accorded low priority.
I am of the opinion that the training of teachers of rural schools in remote parts of the country has to be designed differently. The curriculum has to be a lot more hands-on, experiential and relevant to the children there. Since most of the teachers themselves come from the same background, they would find it easier and more meaningful to teach children what can be easily applicable in that background. Most of the training for teachers is very theoretical and therefore does not highlight the real problems in the field. While some effort is being made to enhance knowledge of teachers through subject training, nothing is being done to ignite passion and pride in the teaching profession. More emphasis needs to be put upon practice teaching so that the individuals are able to generate more confidence in themselves and work to their best abilities to improve their teaching skills.
A few studies have been done on the condition of teacher education in the country but woefully not enough that addresses the conditions in rural India. The identified problems are the obvious ones, like the short duration of the training program as compared to other countries and therefore the lack of depth and gravitas of such training. The problem begins right from the time the student-teachers are selected for the program. The individuals overwhelmed by poverty, insecurity and vulnerability usually experience problems inadequately depicting their skills, even when they are educated and possess the needed information (Mallica, 2005). It is unfortunate that teacher education institutions have not paid much attention to the promotion of creativity (Sharma, 2018). It is for this reason that the practice of rote learning continues in most Indian schools and definitely in the ones in remote India. It is obvious that the teaching profession is not valued and therefore does not attract much investment either from the government, the school management and the teachers themselves. This leads to a lack of professionalism in the teaching profession
The National Council of Teacher Education (NCTE) has become a mere regulatory body. The main job duty that it performs is to control the administrative functioning of the institutions and prevent them from turning into commercial institutions. Where this department has failed is to incorporate innovative contemporary practices in education into the curriculum and establishing quality controls to ensure that the pedagogy is of high standards. It is for this reason that the quality of teaching has not been given any importance and is actually in the decline.
In the midst of this great turmoil, there is a glimmer of hope coming through with the new National Education Policy 2020 that has recommended a slew of changes to the country’s education system. As per the new policy, by 2030, the minimum degree required for teaching will be a four-year integrated BEd. Apart from this, the Teacher Eligibility Test (TET) will also be changed as per the new school system.
National Testing Agency (NTA) test scores in the corresponding subjects will also be taken into account for recruitment. The NTA will hold exams for all subjects and a common aptitude test.
Those who qualify TET will have to give a demonstration or appear in an interview, and show their knowledge of the local language, as per the new policy. As per the NEP – “Interview will become an integral part of teacher hiring." These interviews would also assess comfort and proficiency in teaching in the local language. It would be a must for teachers in private schools as well to qualify TET. While this seems a good idea, it is, however, unclear how they propose to interview teachers in remote areas.
Under the National Education Policy, a new National Curriculum, Framework for Teacher Education (NCFTE), will be formulated in the country. The new policy acknowledges that no reform will work unless the teacher is brought onto the centre-stage. Critics have raised issues about the policies opaque treatment of “contract teachers or para teachers” which is one of the critical reasons for the poor quality of teaching in the remote parts of the country. The policy is not clear about the working conditions and salaries of these ‘local’ teachers, nor is there any clarity about who will hire them. The number of contract teachers in India’s education system has steadily grown from 3,16,091 at the elementary level in 2010-11 to 6,32,316 by 2017-18 at the elementary and secondary levels. While the draft NEP of 2019 made an unequivocal statement about discontinuing the practice of contract teachers, NEP 2020 does not do so. It is well known that this system can be dysfunctional and even unfair because two sets of teachers are expected to do the same work under two entirely different service conditions.
Teacher vacancies have also been a huge problem in India. The year 2018-19 saw 11.7% vacancies against the sanctioned posts of teachers. States like Bihar, Chhattisgarh, Jharkhand and Uttar Pradesh had more than 30% of the posts sanctioned in the Samagra Shiksha vacant. NEP has not given any timelines about how and when these vacancies will be filled.
None of the good ideas discussed in NEP 2020 can see any reality without a clear road map to transform the way teachers both in the cities and remote places are positioned in the educational system.
In the post-COVID-19 era, more will be demanded by our teachers and we need to prepare them for it. Our teachers may have to do a lot more than just show up in the classroom. Teachers have to rediscover themselves as counsellors and healers to deal with the uncertainties that the children are facing. The question to ask is how do we, as a nation, prepare ourselves for this onerous task and do it well?
About the author: Shukla Bose is the Founder-CEO of Parikrma Humanity Foundation, a nonprofit organisation that runs English-medium schools for underprivileged children. She can be reached on Twitter at @ShuklaBose.
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Education
National Startup Day: A New Era for Education and Entrepreneurship
Published
2 days agoon
January 16, 2025
As India celebrates nine years of the Startup India initiative on National Startup Day, 16 January 2025, it’s evident how deeply the entrepreneurial spirit has been embedded in the nation’s fabric. From being a country of aspiring doctors and engineers to a hub for budding entrepreneurs, India has undergone a significant transformation. This shift isn’t confined to adults but is increasingly taking root in schools, where the next generation of business leaders is being nurtured.
The Entrepreneurial Wave in Schools
Startup culture has permeated classrooms, with students now creating and marketing products under professional guidance. Chemistry labs aren’t just for experiments anymore; they’ve become mini manufacturing units. Students are crafting innovative products—think handmade soaps, eco-friendly cleaning agents, and even tech gadgets—and selling them under their school’s brand. This hands-on experience in entrepreneurship is teaching them valuable lessons in problem-solving, teamwork, and financial literacy, far beyond traditional academics.
Shows like Shark Tank India have also played a crucial role in shaping young minds. These programmes, widely watched across TV and OTT platforms, have demystified entrepreneurship for students and parents alike. By showcasing real-life success stories, they’ve encouraged families to view entrepreneurship as a viable career path, on par with medicine or engineering.
Schools as Incubators of Ideas
Schools today are recognising their potential to act as incubators for future business leaders. Many are introducing entrepreneurship programmes, collaborating with startups, and organising business pitch competitions. These initiatives allow students to explore their interests and learn the intricacies of building a business—from ideation and prototyping to marketing and scaling.
Some schools have even created dedicated innovation labs and partnered with local businesses for mentorship opportunities. These setups not only foster creativity but also give students exposure to the practical aspects of running a business. Such efforts align perfectly with the government’s Startup India initiative, which has championed innovation and inclusivity for nearly a decade.
Why This Matters for the Future
Entrepreneurship isn’t just about creating businesses; it’s about fostering a mindset. Students who grow up in this environment are better equipped to tackle real-world challenges, think creatively, and adapt to changing circumstances. These skills are invaluable, whether they eventually choose to run their own business or work within an organisation.
Moreover, promoting entrepreneurship in schools has a ripple effect. It not only prepares students for the future but also inspires communities and contributes to economic growth. Schools that actively engage in such initiatives are setting a precedent for holistic education that balances academics with life skills.
What Next?
With over 1.59 lakh startups now recognised in India, the country has become a global hub of innovation. Schools must seize this moment to integrate entrepreneurial education into their curriculums actively. By doing so, they will not only align with national objectives but also prepare students for a world that values innovation and adaptability above all.
As we celebrate National Startup Day, let’s look forward to a future where classrooms double as boardrooms and students graduate not just with degrees but with dreams ready to take flight.
Education
Sunbeam Suncity’s Year of Achievements and Global Engagement
Published
2 days agoon
January 16, 2025
Sunbeam Suncity (School & Hostel) Varanasi has had a noteworthy year, marked by significant achievements across academics, sports, and cultural domains. Upholding the Sunbeam Group’s 52-year legacy, the school has demonstrated a steadfast commitment to fostering holistic education, encouraging global engagement, and nurturing well-rounded individuals.
A standout event of the year was the hosting of the Round Square Conference 2024 on Sunbeam Suncity’s expansive 65-acre campus. The event brought together 210 delegates from India, Europe, and the Middle East, providing a platform for students to engage in cross-cultural dialogue and develop a broader global perspective. This conference, along with the school’s active participation in associations such as Round Square and AFS, has offered students avenues to interact and collaborate on international platforms.
In the realm of academics and the arts, the school’s students delivered notable performances, particularly at the Kanchenjunga Lit Fest 2024, where they were awarded the title of Overall Champion. Students excelled in events such as quiz competitions, creative writing, debate, and visual arts, underscoring the school’s focus on fostering intellectual exploration and creative expression.
Sports also played a significant role in the school’s accomplishments this year. Sunbeam Suncity’s teams earned commendable recognition at various events, including the CBSE Cluster Table Tennis Championship 2024, where both team and individual honours were secured.
The school’s efforts to promote leadership and global awareness, combined with its consistent success in academic, creative, and athletic pursuits, highlight its dedication to preparing students for future challenges. Through a blend of tradition and innovation, Sunbeam Suncity continues to provide an educational environment that prioritises comprehensive growth and achievement.
Education
2025: A Wake-Up Call for Cybersecurity in Education After the US PowerSchool Breach
Published
3 days agoon
January 15, 2025
The US PowerSchool data breach has once again spotlighted the vulnerabilities of the education sector to cyberattacks. As reported by Caitlynn Peetz for Education Week, the breach potentially exposed the personal data of millions of students and teachers, raising significant concerns about digital security in schools.
The K-12 operations platform PowerSchool, serving over 60 million students across 18,000 institutions globally, experienced a significant data breach on 28th December 2024. Hackers accessed sensitive information, including names, addresses, Social Security numbers, grades, and medical details of students and educators. This incident highlights the vulnerabilities in systems managing critical educational data, sparking concerns about privacy and cybersecurity in the education sector.
The Growing Threat in India
India is facing a surge in cyberattacks, with the education sector emerging as one of the most targeted. A report by Check Point Software Technologies reveals that Indian educational institutions experience an average of 8,195 weekly attacks, significantly higher than the global average of 3,355. Sensitive data, including students’ personal, academic, and financial records, makes these institutions lucrative targets for cybercriminals.
Weak cybersecurity measures and the growing reliance on digital tools post-pandemic have further exacerbated vulnerabilities. Generative AI and sophisticated phishing techniques have increased the frequency and severity of these attacks, exposing institutions to risks ranging from financial loss to reputational damage.
Consequences of a Data Breach
The consequences of a data breach in the education sector are far-reaching and can be devastating:
- Identity Theft: Personal information, once leaked, can lead to identity theft, affecting students and their families.
- Financial Fraud: Misuse of sensitive financial data can result in fraudulent transactions.
- Disruption to Learning: Cyberattacks often paralyse institutional operations, forcing schools to shut down for days or weeks.
- Erosion of Trust: Breaches undermine confidence in institutions, leading to reputational damage that can take years to repair.
Why the Education Sector is Vulnerable
Educational institutions store vast amounts of sensitive data but often lack robust cybersecurity frameworks. Their reliance on online platforms, coupled with limited budgets for IT infrastructure, makes them easy targets for cybercriminals. In India, post-COVID-19 adoption of online learning platforms has only increased exposure to data breaches.
Lessons from the PowerSchool Breach
The PowerSchool breach occurred due to compromised credentials, highlighting the importance of basic cybersecurity practices. The company has since implemented stronger password policies and multi-factor authentication. However, this incident underscores the need for a proactive approach to prevent such attacks in the first place.
Mitigating Cybersecurity Risks
To prevent 2025 from becoming the year of rampant cyberattacks on education, a multi-pronged approach is essential:
- Training and Awareness: Teachers, staff, and students must be educated about phishing and other cyber threats.
- Strong Password Practices: Implementing multi-factor authentication and avoiding password reuse are critical steps.
- Regular Audits: Conducting cybersecurity audits can help identify vulnerabilities and address them proactively.
- Data Encryption: Sensitive data should be encrypted to minimise the impact of breaches.
- Collaboration with Experts: Partnering with cybersecurity firms can provide institutions with the latest tools and strategies to combat threats.
- Government Support: Leveraging grants and policies to strengthen IT infrastructure in schools is imperative.
The alarming frequency of cyberattacks in both the US and India signals a pressing need for educational institutions to prioritise cybersecurity. As experts have advocated for integrating sports, humanities, AI, or STEM into education, a similar emphasis on digital safety could create a holistic approach to modern learning.
The data of students and educators is priceless. Safeguarding it is not just a technological challenge but a moral imperative to ensure the integrity and trustworthiness of educational institutions worldwide.
Education
Bhaichung Bhutia and Neeraj Chopra Amplify The Mission to Make India a Champion Nation Through Sports-Driven Education
Published
5 days agoon
January 13, 2025
Creating a nation of sports champions requires a fundamental shift in how India balances education and athletics. Former Indian football team captain Bhaichung Bhutia and Olympic gold medallist Neeraj Chopra have called for a more sports-integrated education system to nurture talent and elevate India’s global athletic standing.
Speaking at the Viksit Bharat Young Leaders Dialogue, Bhutia emphasised the urgent need for collaboration between the Ministry of Education and the Ministry of Youth Affairs and Sports. “Every child is trained to become a doctor or an engineer, but we need a more sports-friendly curriculum. Only then will India produce world champions,” Bhutia said. He suggested making sports a major subject in schools to build an ecosystem that values athletic achievement alongside academics.
Echoing similar sentiments, Neeraj Chopra highlighted the success of student-athletes in the United States, where schools and universities play a critical role in producing Olympic-level athletes. “If schools and universities in India adopt a similar approach, we will see a big rise in sports,” Chopra told Lallantop. He stressed that with proper management, balancing sports and education is achievable, citing American athletes as examples.
Both athletes pointed to the need for systemic changes in policy and mindset. Bhutia called for sports and education ministries to collaborate closely, while Chopra advocated for schools and universities to integrate competitive sports programs.
The calls from Bhutia and Chopra align with India’s growing focus on youth development under initiatives like the Viksit Bharat Young Leaders Dialogue. For India to become a sporting powerhouse, the nation must prioritise infrastructure, policy reforms, and a cultural shift that places equal importance on athletic and academic excellence.
Education
2024 Year in Review: Updates and Insights from the Department of School Education & Literacy
Published
6 days agoon
January 11, 2025
The Department of School Education & Literacy, under the Ministry of Education, unveiled several key initiatives and achievements in 2024, reflecting its commitment to implementing the National Education Policy (NEP) 2020. From boosting foundational literacy to advancing eco-conscious education, the department’s efforts highlight a transformative year in the realm of school education in India.
Samagra Shiksha: A Holistic Approach to Education
The Samagra Shiksha scheme continued its focus on integrating education from pre-primary to Class XII, aligned with Sustainable Development Goal 4 (SDG-4). Between 2018 and 2025, the scheme achieved notable milestones:
- 3,656 schools upgraded.
- 138,802 schools equipped with ICT and digital initiatives.
- 9,477 schools introduced vocational education.
The scheme also addressed inclusivity with provisions for children with special needs, including stipends, aids, and barrier-free infrastructure, ensuring equitable access to education.
PM SHRI Schools: Exemplars of NEP 2020
The PM SHRI scheme aims to establish over 14,500 exemplar schools to implement NEP 2020 effectively. As of 2024, 12,084 schools have been selected, spanning primary to senior secondary levels. These schools boast state-of-the-art infrastructure, including smart classrooms, Atal Tinkering Labs, and enhanced sports facilities, fostering holistic education and innovation.
PM POSHAN: Tackling Hunger and Promoting Nutrition
The PM POSHAN scheme continued to provide hot meals to students from pre-primary to Class VIII in government and government-aided schools. Key enhancements included:
- Integration of school nutrition gardens.
- Special provisions for anaemia-prone districts.
- Community participation through Tithi Bhojan.
Material costs for meals were also revised to address inflation, ensuring sustained nutrition for students.
ULLAS: Fostering Lifelong Learning
The ULLAS initiative aims to achieve universal literacy by providing foundational and vocational education to adults aged 15 and above. In 2024:
- Over 2 crore learners and 39 lakh volunteer teachers registered.
- Ladakh became the first fully literate administrative unit.
- National Literacy Week saw 4.8 crore participants.
PARAKH and Assessment Reforms
The National Assessment Centre, PARAKH, implemented the PARAKH Rashtriya Sarvekshan 2024, covering 23 lakh students across 87,619 schools. The survey aimed to benchmark student competencies and introduced Holistic Progress Cards (HPC) to capture multidimensional student progress.
Inclusivity and Accessibility
Under Samagra Shiksha, efforts to include children with special needs advanced significantly. Key achievements include:
- Accessible infrastructure in 58.5% of government schools.
- Development of educational content in Indian Sign Language.
- Dedicated resources for screening and supporting students with disabilities.
Environmental Awareness: Eco Clubs for Mission LiFE
Eco Clubs, aligned with the Mission LiFE initiative, empowered students to adopt sustainable practices. Activities in 2024 included:
- 1.46 lakh new Eco Clubs established.
- 5.18 crore saplings planted during tree plantation drives.
- School nutrition gardens promoting sustainable food systems.
Teacher Education and Training
The introduction of the Integrated Teacher Education Programme (ITEP) aims to enhance teacher training by offering a dual major bachelor’s degree in education and a specialised subject. This initiative, along with the National Mission for Mentoring (NMM), strives to elevate teaching standards and professional development.
Equivalence Across School Boards
PARAKH facilitated regional workshops and studies to standardise assessments and curricula across school boards, promoting equity in education nationwide.
Key Infrastructure Developments
- Approval for 85 new Kendriya Vidyalayas (KVs) and expansion of one existing KV.
- Enhanced accessibility through the generation of over 7 crore APAAR IDs, ensuring seamless academic transitions for students.
Looking Ahead
The department’s initiatives in 2024 reflect a comprehensive effort to make education inclusive, innovative, and aligned with future needs. From integrating technology to fostering environmental responsibility, these steps pave the way for a transformative educational landscape in India.
Education
Sunbeam School Sarnath Achieves Multiple Milestones in Education and Beyond
Published
6 days agoon
January 11, 2025
Sunbeam School Sarnath has marked a year of significant achievements, reflecting its commitment to innovation, talent, and holistic development. Among its accomplishments, the school secured 1st place in the Disaster Management category at the CBSE Regional Science Exhibition 2024, held at DPS Gomtinagar, Lucknow. This win has qualified its students for the National Finals, showcasing their capability to address real-world issues through science.
The school also hosted the district-level National School Band Competition 2024, where over 13 teams participated. Sunbeam School Sarnath’s Brass Band emerged victorious, earning first place and advancing to the National Finals. The event highlighted the dedication and teamwork of young performers.
In sports, the school’s U-11 Aerobics Team won a gold medal at the Inter School Gymnastics Aerobics Competition, held at Panini Kanya Mahavidyalay and organised by the Varanasi District Gymnastics Association.
Additionally, the school was honoured with the Institution of Happiness Award at the Institution of Happiness Conclave in Bangalore. This achievement was backed by the school’s emphasis on mental well-being and fostering an inclusive educational environment that prioritises emotional health alongside academic growth.
Education
Union Minister for Education Dharmendra Pradhan Unveils Draft UGC Regulations 2025
Published
1 week agoon
January 10, 2025
Union Minister for Education, Shri Dharmendra Pradhan, launched the draft UGC (Minimum Qualifications for Appointment & Promotion of Teachers and Academic Staff in Universities and Colleges and Measures for the Maintenance of Standards in Higher Education) Regulations, 2025, in New Delhi. The event also saw the inauguration of ‘Pushpagiri’, the new auditorium of the University Grants Commission (UGC), honouring the intellectual heritage of Odisha.
Addressing the audience, Shri Dharmendra Pradhan highlighted how the proposed reforms align with the National Education Policy (NEP) 2020, aiming to foster innovation, inclusivity, and flexibility in higher education. He praised the UGC team for their efforts and expressed optimism that these guidelines will empower academic staff, strengthen educational standards, and pave the way for Viksit Bharat 2047 through quality education and research.
The draft regulations have been made available for public feedback, with stakeholders invited to share their suggestions before the final version is published. Shri Pradhan underlined the transformative potential of these guidelines in shaping India’s education system, promoting holistic learning, and driving the country towards excellence in research and academia.
Key Highlights of the Draft Regulations 2025
- Flexibility in Qualifications: Candidates with NET/SET qualifications can pursue teaching careers in subjects differing from their previous degrees, with PhD specialisation prioritised.
- Promoting Indian Languages: Encourages academic publications and degree programmes in Indian languages.
- Holistic Evaluation: Eliminates score-based shortlisting, focusing on broader qualifications, including “Notable Contributions.”
- Inclusivity: Creates pathways for experts in arts, sports, and traditional disciplines, and welcomes accomplished sportspersons, including those with disabilities, into academia.
- Enhanced Governance: Revises Vice-Chancellor selection processes with expanded eligibility and transparency.
- Simplified Promotions: Streamlines promotion criteria, emphasising teaching, research, and academic contributions.
- Professional Development: Encourages faculty development programs for continuous skill enhancement.
- Transparent Processes: Ensures accountability in recruitment, promotions, and grievance redressal.
A Potential Game-Changer
If implemented effectively, the Draft UGC Regulations 2025 could significantly transform higher education in India. By fostering inclusivity, encouraging multilingualism, and prioritising holistic evaluation, these reforms align with global standards. Enhanced transparency and opportunities for professional development can uplift the teaching community, creating a vibrant ecosystem of learning and innovation. The focus on Indian languages and traditional disciplines could bridge the gap between modern education and cultural heritage, setting a benchmark for academic excellence worldwide.
The draft guidelines can be accessed for review and feedback on the UGC website.
Education
India’s Education Conundrum: Envisioning 2025 Amid Ground Realities
Published
2 weeks agoon
January 7, 2025
“India will grow only if India reads.” But is India truly reading? Recent statistics reveal a sobering reality: over the past two years, 1.72 crore children have dropped out of school. The Unified District Information System for Education (UDISE+) 2023-24 report highlights a worrying decline in school enrolments, dropping from 26.5 crore in 2021-22 to 24.8 crore in 2023-24. This marks the first major fall in six years, raising critical concerns about the robustness of India’s education system.
Inspired by a video report by The Quint, highlighting key insights into India’s education challenges.
A Declining Trend Across States
States like Bihar, Uttar Pradesh, and Maharashtra have witnessed significant drops in enrolments, with Bihar alone seeing a decline of 35.65 lakh students. At the primary level, enrolments have fallen by 46 lakh in the last year, while secondary-level dropout rates remain alarmingly high. Despite the National Education Policy (NEP) 2020’s ambitious vision of universal access and equity, the stark reality indicates otherwise.
The Gross Enrolment Ratio (GER), which measures the proportion of students enrolled in a particular level of education against the age-appropriate population, has seen minor dips at most levels. While retention rates are higher at the elementary level, the secondary level remains a challenge, with dropout rates spiking significantly.
Reasons for the Decline
UDISE+ attributes the decline to several factors:
- Improved Data Collection: Earlier, children were often dual-enrolled in government and private schools to access benefits. Aadhaar-linked verification has curtailed this practice, reflecting more accurate enrolment figures.
- Reverse Migration: The COVID-19 pandemic saw families moving back to villages, enrolling their children in government schools. As migration reverses, many students are returning to private schools.
However, these reasons fail to explain why the overall enrolment rate has not stabilised or increased. This raises questions about the authenticity of data in previous years and the systemic gaps in ensuring universal education.
Infrastructure and Teacher Shortages
India’s education system faces significant infrastructural and human resource challenges.
Over 110,000 schools operate with only one teacher, making effective learning nearly impossible.
States like Bihar and Uttar Pradesh report dismal teacher-student ratios, with thousands of teaching positions lying vacant. In Assam, Odisha, and Karnataka, underutilised infrastructure due to low student-to-school ratios further underscores the inefficiency in resource allocation. While digital initiatives have gained traction, only 7% of schools across the country have digital libraries, and fewer have functional computers for educational use. These gaps highlight the urgent need for equitable distribution of resources and investments.
Vision 2025: A Lofty Goal
The NEP 2020 outlines a transformative roadmap for education by 2025, focusing on universal access, quality improvement, and innovation. It aims to:
- Achieve a 100% Gross Enrolment Ratio in school education.
- Integrate vocational education into mainstream curricula.
- Promote multilingualism and mother-tongue instruction in early grades.
- Strengthen teacher training and professional development.
While the vision is commendable, the ground realities paint a different picture. Without addressing foundational challenges such as teacher shortages, inadequate infrastructure, and socio-economic disparities, these goals may remain aspirational rather than achievable.
The Path Forward
To realise its Vision 2025 and the broader aspiration of becoming a global superpower by 2047, India must prioritise education as a critical driver of progress. Key measures include:
- Investing in Teachers: Teachers are the backbone of any education system. Comprehensive training, better salaries, and improved working conditions are essential to attract and retain talent.
- Bridging the Infrastructure Gap: Adequate infrastructure, including classrooms, laboratories, and digital resources, must be a priority. States with underutilised resources should focus on optimising their infrastructure to ensure equitable access.
- Addressing Dropout Rates: Targeted interventions, such as scholarships, counselling, and after-school support, can help retain students, particularly at the secondary level.
- Fostering Public-Private Partnerships: Collaborations between the government, private sector, and non-profits can enhance resource allocation, innovation, and accountability.
- Focusing on Data Transparency: Reliable data is critical for effective policymaking. Strengthening systems like UDISE+ to ensure accurate and timely reporting can help identify gaps and track progress.
A Nation’s Future Hinges on Education
As India marches towards its centenary of independence in 2047, its aspirations of becoming a superpower are intrinsically linked to the quality of education it provides. A nation’s strength lies in its people, and education is the cornerstone of human capital development. Bridging the divide between vision and reality requires collective effort, strong political will, and unwavering commitment from all stakeholders.
Edutainment
Word of the Year 2024: Can Teachers Keep Up With The Evolving Language of Gen Z?
Published
1 month agoon
December 9, 2024
Language evolves at a rapid pace, and the younger generation—Gen Z and the emerging Gen Alpha—are taking it to new heights. Social media platforms like TikTok and Instagram have become hotbeds for linguistic innovation, where abbreviations, slang, and newly minted words emerge faster than ever before. Words like “brb,” “slay,” “sus,” and even Oxford’s Word of the Year 2024, “brain rot,” are part of their everyday vocabulary. But amidst this linguistic whirlwind, one question arises: Are teachers catching up?
A Gap in Communication
Imagine a classroom where a student says, “brb! Wanna use the washroom,” and the teacher pauses, unsure of the abbreviation. Such scenarios highlight a communication gap. Research consistently shows that effective communication between students and teachers fosters trust, engagement, and better learning outcomes. According to a 2022 study by Education Week, students who feel understood by their teachers are 45% more likely to excel academically and 30% less likely to skip classes.
However, understanding Gen Z’s and Gen Alpha’s linguistic trends isn’t just about learning a dictionary of slang—it’s about bridging a generational divide and fostering mutual respect.
Tackling the Language Gap
- Training Teachers on Evolving Language
One way to address the gap is to provide teachers with targeted training sessions that focus on the language trends of younger generations. These sessions could include decoding popular abbreviations, slang, and even cultural references that dominate social media. This approach can help teachers stay relevant and avoid miscommunication. However, with mounting academic and emotional responsibilities, many educators might find such training an added burden. - Building Relationships Through Interaction
A more organic solution lies in fostering better teacher-student relationships. By engaging in informal conversations with students, teachers can learn their language naturally. This approach not only helps teachers understand evolving slang but also humanises them in the eyes of their students, fostering trust and relatability. Interacting with students on their terms creates a classroom culture of mutual respect and understanding.
The Role of Language in Education
Language is more than just a tool for communication—it shapes relationships and builds cultural bridges. The words of the year like “manifest” and “brat” represent not only linguistic trends but also cultural shifts towards empowerment, individuality, and self-expression. Teachers who understand this language can better connect with their students, appreciating the unique values and pressures they face.
The Words of the Year 2024—‘brain rot’, ‘manifest’, ‘brat’, and ‘demure’—offer educators a glimpse into the psyche of today’s youth.
For example, ‘brain rot’ reflects Gen Z’s awareness of digital overconsumption, while ‘manifest’ underscores their optimism and drive for self-improvement. A teacher who grasps these nuances can integrate them into lessons and discussions, creating a more engaging learning experience.
Ultimately, understanding the language of younger generations is a two-way street. While teachers can make an effort to decode Gen Z and Gen Alpha slang, students too can adapt to bridge the gap. The key lies in fostering dialogue and mutual respect, ensuring that language differences become a point of connection rather than a barrier.
As language continues to evolve at a breakneck pace, the classroom must remain a space where both students and teachers feel heard and understood. By embracing change and prioritising communication, education can keep up with the times while maintaining its core values.
Education
CBSE to Introduce Two-Level Structure for Science and Social Science in Classes 9 and 10 by 2026
Published
2 months agoon
December 3, 2024
The Central Board of Secondary Education (CBSE) is set to introduce a two-level structure for Science and Social Science subjects in Classes 9 and 10, starting from the 2026–2027 academic session. This move follows the successful implementation of two-level mathematics examinations—Standard and Basic—for Class 10 students in the 2019–2020 session.
The decision aligns with the National Education Policy (NEP) 2020, which advocates offering subjects at varying difficulty levels to reduce academic pressure and counter the coaching culture. The proposed structure aims to give students the option to study some subjects at a higher level while taking others at a standard level.
Key Details of the Plan
According to Hindustan Times, the CBSE curriculum council has already approved the proposal, and final approval from the Board’s governing body is awaited. The initiative seeks to empower students who demonstrate an aptitude for Science and Social Science to study these subjects in greater depth before transitioning to Class 11.
For Mathematics, which currently offers two levels, the syllabus remains the same for both Standard and Basic levels, but the difficulty and format of the question papers differ. A similar approach is likely for Science and Social Science, although details are yet to be finalised. Advanced-level students may be provided with supplementary learning resources, alternative textbooks, or the same textbooks with additional challenges and problems.
Implementation Framework
The implementation of this two-tier system depends on the development of updated textbooks by the National Council of Educational Research and Training (NCERT). As part of the ongoing curriculum reform under NEP 2020, the NCERT has already released new textbooks for Classes 1, 2, 3, and 6, with materials for Classes 4, 5, 7, and 8 expected in the 2025–2026 academic year. Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan has indicated that all updated textbooks are likely to be available by January 2026.
Students will likely have a window to choose between the standard and advanced levels and may be allowed to switch within a stipulated timeframe. The advanced level could include longer study hours and distinct question papers for Board examinations.
By offering this flexibility, the CBSE aims to provide students with opportunities tailored to their abilities, enabling them to excel academically without undue stress.
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