Brainfeed reporter Aiswarya Ashok attends the 47th online edition 3 Sawaal. Here are the key points
The 47th edition of 3 Sawaal/Questions featured the conversation between Dr. A Senthil Kumaran, Chief Confluencer, and Prof. Chandra B Sharma, Former Chairman of the National Institute for Open Schooling (NIOS) and Director of the School of Education at Indira Gandhi National Open University (IGNOU). The talk delved into the challenges and opportunities in implementing the National Education Policy (NEP) 2020, particularly in ensuring access and quality in school education across India.
Navigating the Challenges of NEP Implementation
One of the primary concerns raised during the discussion was the slow progress in implementing NEP 2020, particularly in textbook development. Prof. Sharma pointed out that despite nearly five years since the policy’s launch, textbook revision remains sluggish, drawing a stark contrast with the 2004-05 revision process, which was completed within a year. This delay has hindered the broader rollout of the policy’s reforms.
Another critical aspect discussed was the disparity in access to education, particularly in rural India. Despite government claims of increasing enrollment, the actual availability of quality education remains questionable. Prof. Sharma cited the Prime Minister’s statement that nearly 70% of Indian children reside in villages without proper access to good schools and teachers. While the government has made efforts to expand educational infrastructure, ensuring that rural children receive quality education in their mother tongues remains a pressing challenge.
Quality over Quantity: Re-evaluating the Focus
A significant concern highlighted in the seminar was the need to shift the focus from enrollment statistics to meaningful learning outcomes. While government programs like mid-day meals have led to high attendance rates sometimes surpassing 100% in official records actual learning levels remain inadequate. Currently, only 26.3% of children progress to higher education, emphasising the need for a more competency-based approach rather than mere rote learning.
Prof. Sharma advocated for the establishment of an independent school education commission to oversee reforms and ensure consistency in policy implementation. He also recommended removing education from the concurrent list, arguing that a centralised approach could help streamline reforms across states. Additionally, he stressed the importance of an ongoing textbook revision system to keep curricula relevant to contemporary educational needs.
Teacher Training: The Backbone of Educational Reform
The seminar also addressed the pressing issue of teacher training and professional standards. A key highlight was the need for government-funded four-year Integrated Teacher Education Programs (ITEP) with appropriate specialisation. This, coupled with better salary structures for foundational teachers, would attract and retain quality educators.
Prof. Sharma emphasised the need for community-based teacher placements, pointing out that nearly 33% of female teachers resign due to being posted away from their families. Placing teachers within their communities, he argued, aligns with the NEP’s vision and Gandhi’s philosophy, ensuring continuity and improving the quality of education.
Inclusive Education: Bridging the Gaps
Another discussion point was the importance of inclusive education strategies. The speakers highlighted the need for tailored approaches for different disability groups, citing examples of adaptations for hearing-impaired students and autistic children. By developing targeted strategies for various disabilities, Indian education can become more accessible and effective for all learners.
Furthermore, Prof. Sharma defended the legitimacy of alternative schooling systems such as NIOS. He reiterated that NIOS certificates hold the same value as CBSE certifications, as affirmed by Supreme Court rulings. Encouraging flexibility in education while maintaining standardised norms is crucial for expanding educational opportunities to non-traditional learners.
Empowering Education Professionals in Policy-Making
A key takeaway from the discussion was the role of education professionals in shaping policy reforms. Prof. Sharma urged professionals to form research groups, conduct studies, and develop concrete policy proposals to influence decision-making. Instead of solely relying on government directives, he advocated for a collaborative approach where educators contribute actively to shaping India’s educational future.
Key Action Points for Educational Reform
- Establish an Independent School Education Commission – To oversee and drive educational reforms effectively.
- Remove Education from the Concurrent List – Ensuring national consistency in policy implementation.
- Develop a System for Continuous Textbook Revision – To keep educational content updated and relevant.
- Implement Government-Funded Four-Year Teacher Training Programs (ITEP) – With scholarships and specialisations.
- Establish Community-Based Teacher Placement Systems – Reducing resignations and improving educational service delivery.
- Develop Tailored Inclusive Education Strategies – Addressing the needs of different disability groups.
- Ensure Equal Recognition of NIOS Certificates – Alongside CBSE and other mainstream boards.
- Encourage Education Professionals to Conduct Research and Influence Policy – Strengthening grassroots contributions to educational reforms.
Conclusion: The Road Ahead
The seminar shed light on the urgent need to accelerate the implementation of NEP 2020 while maintaining a strong focus on quality education. Key reforms such as teacher training, inclusive education, and continuous textbook revision will be instrumental in bridging existing gaps. Most importantly, empowering educators to actively participate in policy-making can drive meaningful change in India’s education landscape.
As the nation moves towards achieving the ambitious goals of NEP 2020 by 2030, collaboration among government bodies, educators, and policymakers will be essential in ensuring that every child in India receives quality, multidisciplinary education. The road ahead requires commitment, innovation, and collective effort to transform the Indian education system for future generations.
