EDUCATION is a process through which a person acquires knowledge and information. It creates employment, social security and helps to get a decent standard of living. Currently, India’s population is 138 crore, which means India’s demographic dividend is in favor of creating human resources.
However, there are many issues in our current EDUCATION system. The new policy was approved by the government with the goal of making India a knowledge powerhouse.
The five most significant changes
- 5+3+3+4
The government has changed the 10 + 2 system of schooling to a 5+3+3+4 format.
- Foundation Stage
The first five years of school will form the basis. It will include three years of pre-primary school, class 1 and class 2.
- Preparatory Stage
This stage includes the classes from class 3 to 5.
- Middle Stage
Classes 6 to 8 will be included in the middle stage.
- Secondary stage
In the last stage, classes 9 to 12 are covered.
- Mother Tongue as an Instructional Medium
The policy states that it is easier to learn non-trivial concepts in one’s mother tongue. The NEP has recommended using the mother tongue as a medium of instruction. It is not binding on the schools.
However, it is stated that wherever it is possible, there should be use of the mother tongue till class 5.
- Inclusive in Nature
It has been decided to give incentives to SC, ST, OBC and other categories on the basis of merit. There will be an expansion of the National Scholarship Portal to track all the funding of scholarships. Private institutions would also be encouraged to give free scholarships to deserving students.
- Multi-Disciplinary Approach
The institutes will evolve into multi-disciplinary institutes. There will be a phasing out of universities offering only single streams. The new policy aims at broad-based and flexible learning. All universities and colleges should become multidisciplinary in nature by 2023.
- Exit Option in Degree Courses.
There will be multiple exit options in an undergraduate degree course. Students will get a certificate after completing one year if a student decides to drop out.
If the student drops out after 2 and 3 years, a diploma and a bachelor’s degree will be given, respectively.
However, the preferred option will be a four-year multi-disciplinary Bachelor’s program. It will give students an opportunity to do research along with a degree.
With the effective implementation of this policy, India will be on par with other developed countries in the world. The policy will help to achieve Sustainable Development Goal 4 with the aim of creating better human resource capital.
