A Silver Lining In An Overcast Time

~by Kashish.D 

“The Lockdown”. 

These two words brought a smile on almost every student since most of their colleges and schools had shut down because of the Covid-19 breakout. An abundance of free time is the fantasy of every student. Yet, most of us got bored of “being bored” and thus decided to do something with all this free time we had. Despite the mundane and monotonous routine of online classes, we wanted to test and explore new ideas. 

Many Indian educationists are worried over a digital movement in education, that threatens to cut off a sizable number of children. Only about a 1/3rd of students will have access to any online content. It would be difficult for rural parents and marginalised communities to understand that content. When will schools reopen? What will be the future of sports? These are some of the burning questions. Basic internet access to children is the biggest hurdle. With the continuing decline in the economy and salary of a middle class parent, such parents cannot afford recharges or WiFi connections. 

A carefully analysed decision pertaining to their attributes, can drastically improve their chances at a more rewarding career. Therefore, students and employees can apply for further decision programs, by evaluating their personal characteristics to gain more insight into the directions they have considered, by using a simple acronym “S.E.A.T”, which is as follows: 

Skill: These are the acquired skills of an individual. They may be hard or soft, since it's an individual’s ability to accept challenges and carry them out responsibly. 

Enjoyment: The inclination towards comprehending something with exciting engagement. 

Advantage: Things that are beneficial in the long term, to add as accolades for the student. Motivation, balance and leadership qualities are a few vital values to acquire, that help in all fields of life. 

Temperament: An individual’s response to a stimuli in the given environment. Their reaction determines their perspective, which then determines their attributes. 

Utilizing the right avenues and developing career specific-skills, is a personal competitive benefit. Networking, using social networking tools like LinkedIn, to exhibit your personal philosophy and brand, can also make sure that your foot is right inside the occupational circle. 

The Indian government has also introduced courses like SWAYAM, ICT, iGOT etc.. The online courses are extremely affordable, which cost a few dollars for the certificate, whereas the learning material is absolutely free of cost. Well thought lesson plans, with assignments and resources, make sure the theory is taught with a practical application, which enhances the learning experience, and makes it more invigorating. They are available in English, as well as

regional languages, which make it extremely user friendly. There are many life altering courses which an individual can use for their personal life, while still having a positive impact on their professional life. It takes a lot of trial and error to get into the right field of your choice, and many online platforms and courses, help in segregating your likes and dislikes. 

With a bloom in such great learning opportunities even during such extraordinary circumstances, many have an added edge of values in their professional and personal lives. The use of technology during the pandemic has been extremely crucial. The lockdown has not put a standstill on growth and education, which makes it pivotal for students to make an impact and accelerate the speed of innovation.Confronting the crises, through effective use of our time and resources, can empower a better and sustainable future. 

“Defeating a challenge gives rise to the extraordinary, from mediocrity”