Need of Innovation in Indian Education System!

There are two critical issues troubling the education system in India - the lack of quality education and a flawed system. When we focus on government schools, we observe a lack of adequate infrastructure, a shortage of qualified teachers, and a deficiency in delivering quality education. On the other hand, private schools often charge exorbitant fees and impose various restrictions, making it inaccessible for the common man. Even if a student manages to receive an education within this system, they often struggle to secure suitable employment opportunities.

The problem lies in the fact that many schools and colleges treat education more as a business than a temple of knowledge. Students are often seen as customers rather than individuals seeking to acquire skills and knowledge. This approach has resulted in educational institutions primarily preparing students to become corporate clerks and professionals rather than fostering holistic development.

Our youth face various challenges due to this outdated school and college system. To illustrate this, let's consider the evolution of technology. Phones, TVs, fridges, and other appliances have all evolved significantly over time. However, the education system in India has remained largely unchanged for over a century, rendering it outdated syllabus & courses.

Parents are willing to make significant sacrifices for their children's education, often mortgaging their assets and dreams in the hope of securing a brighter future for their children. Despite these efforts, many graduates struggle to find suitable employment, and even when they do, the salaries often barely cover the interest on the loans taken for education.

So, who is responsible for the issues within the education system? It's crucial to assess the roles of various stakeholders, including the government, parents, schools, colleges, and even the students themselves.

In this case study, we aim not only to highlight the problems but also to discuss potential solutions to address these issues and improve the education system in India.

What really is the solution ? A poor man has only one way to come out of poverty in today's date: "Education." If my son gets educated and his career develops, life is set, and then we will get out of the poverty line. We will also get set. In the hope of this, he spends a lot of money, works hard, and struggles a lot, but this education system destroys his career rather than developing it, and life does not get set. Many times in this frustration, the same student ends his life. But why does this happen? When there are so many colleges, so many schools, and so much education, why is the person not getting a job? Why is ASSOCHAM (Associated Chambers of Commerce and Industry of India) saying that 93% of the people are not eligible for jobs? Is there unemployment or underemployment? In many surveys, it's 80%, and in some others, it's 90%. What is the reason behind this? The reason behind this is today's modern education system.

Today's education system was designed during the time of British India. Lord Macaulay designed the system. When the system was designed, there was a shortage of clerks and junior-level personnel. There was no shortage of senior-level people because, at the senior level, one had to rule, and the Britishers would do it themselves. So, top-level positions were reserved for Britishers. For the lower level, men were needed. Then he said, "There are no people in India for our work. So, don't worry; bring an education policy and make them like us."

The education system was meant to develop character in students, to make them good, intelligent, civilized citizens. But why would the Britishers want to make India's citizens good? They wanted people who would be useful to them. Macaulay and his team asked, "What kind of people do you want?" The Britishers replied, "We want punctual people, those who come to work on time, leave on time, and do everything on time. We want such employees." And so, the bell became a part of Indian schools.

The bell in the morning - ding, ding, ding, ding, ding. Students had to follow the bell's schedule. The periods, lunch, and going back home were all timed to the bell. This system was also adopted in factories, and people got used to working according to the bell. When these individuals became laborers in factories, they remained accustomed to the bell. This was one reason.

Now, what type of student did the Britishers want? They wanted students who would follow their orders without thinking for themselves. Students who would blindly follow instructions. Whether they worked in a factory or a government office, they should follow orders. So, they made students cram information, teaching them a fixed syllabus, and there was nothing beyond or behind it. What was written in the books was final! If you asked an Indian child how many seasons there are in India, they would say "Four" because that's what was written in the books. Even though India has six seasons, they were taught to memorize four. They were conditioned to memorize and regurgitate information, not to think critically.

This rote knowledge mentality stuck with them. When these students entered government jobs, they didn't think beyond what was given to them. They wouldn't take the initiative or apply critical thinking. If they made a mistake, their superiors might reprimand or punish them. The schools were more like torture centers, where students were subjected to strict discipline.

Moreover, schools discouraged leadership. They didn't want to nurture future leaders who might rebel against the Britishers. Competition and cooperation among students were discouraged. They were discouraged from helping each other, fostering an environment of mistrust. In contrast, in other parts of the world, like China and Silicon Valley, people supported each other's ideas and startups, leading to innovation and progress.

This is what the modern education system has done to us. It has shaped our personalities in a way that doesn't prepare us for the real world. The schools' focus is on academic success, not on practical skills or character development.

Now, let's address the issue of unemployment and underemployment. In India, 90% of people are self-employed or underemployed. The reason for this is the modern education system. It doesn't prepare students for the real world, where practical skills, leadership, and critical thinking are essential.

In America and China, big businesses have flourished because they have a culture of collaboration and support among entrepreneurs. In India, there are many small businesses, but they don't scale up because people lack trust and the ability to work together in teams.

If you're a business owner or aspiring to be one, you may struggle to find employees with the necessary skills. The education system produces individuals who can't think independently, manage tasks, or demonstrate leadership. They're conditioned to follow instructions blindly, which doesn't work well in the business world.

So, what's the solution ? First, the government needs to reform the education system. However, change takes time, and in the meantime, you can take control of your own education. Embrace self-education. Don't rely solely on what schools and colleges teach you. Explore, learn from various sources like YouTube, Google, and mentors. Develop practical skills and critical thinking.

The Indian education system has been a topic of discussion for years. Many believe it is facing significant challenges, while others see opportunities for reform and improvement. This case study will explore the issues troubling the system and propose potential solutions.

Challenges in the Education System :-

1. Infrastructure and Teacher Shortages - Government schools in India often struggle with inadequate infrastructure and a shortage of qualified teachers. Many schools lack proper facilities and resources, making it challenging for students to receive a quality education.
2. Quality of Education - Both government and private schools sometimes fail to deliver high-quality education. The emphasis on rote learning and outdated curricula hinders students' critical thinking and problem-solving abilities.
3. High Costs of Private Education - Private schools, often considered an alternative to government institutions, can be prohibitively expensive for many families. This financial burden restricts access to quality education for a significant portion of the population.
4. Employability Gap - The education system's failure to align with the demands of the job market results in high unemployment rates among graduates. Many students find themselves inadequately prepared for the professional world.
5. Historical Influence - The current education system in India traces its roots back to the British colonial era when it aimed to produce clerks and junior-level officials. This historical influence still impacts the system's design and goals.

Analysis and Solutions:

1. Teacher Training and Infrastructure Improvement - The government should invest in teacher training programs and school infrastructure development. Qualified and motivated teachers are essential for delivering quality education.
2. Curriculum Reform - Updating the curriculum to emphasize critical thinking, problem-solving, and practical skills is crucial. Schools should focus on preparing students for the challenges of the modern world.
3. Financial Assistance - To address the issue of expensive private education, the government can offer financial aid and scholarships to economically disadvantaged students. This would help level the playing field.
4. Vocational Education - Introducing vocational training and skill development programs in schools and colleges can bridge the employability gap. This ensures that students are ready for the job market upon graduation.
5. Modernization - The education system needs to evolve with the times. Embracing technology, online learning, and innovative teaching methods can make education more engaging and effective.
6. Parental Involvement - Parents play a significant role in shaping their children's education. They should encourage their children to pursue their interests and passions, rather than forcing them into predefined career paths. Dialogue between parents and children is crucial to understanding their aspirations.

Conclusion: The Indian education system faces several challenges, but it also offers numerous opportunities for improvement. By addressing infrastructure issues, modernizing curricula, and promoting vocational education, the government can enhance the quality of education. Furthermore, parents can support their children by encouraging them to pursue their passions and interests. Ultimately, a collaborative effort is needed to create an education system that equips students with the skills and knowledge necessary for success in the 21st century.

Article By - Akash Akku