The Education sector in India is undergoing a revamp through an Inclusive and Future-Ready Approach with NEP 2020
The improvement of students’ social and economic possibilities is the main objective of education, and this can only be accomplished if they have access to an affordable, high-quality education. With the National Education Policy 2020 emphasising equity, quality, and chances for upward mobility, India has made great advancements in education. Education governance is rapidly reforming to prepare students to be future-ready, and Higher Educational Institutions (HEIs) are embracing accountability and good governance to offer students freedom, flexibility, and choices in shaping their learning pathways. HEIs should work on other models of imparting high-quality education without straining resources to avoid social stratification.
In India, there are approximately 4.1 crore students who are enrolled in higher education, and this number is projected to grow immensely in the upcoming years. The National Digital University (NDU) would be developed with programmes in traditional subjects as well as data science, machine learning, and business analytics to democratise access to top-notch education. This will help massify higher education and provide access to students at affordable costs. Criticisms of entrance tests include the mental and financial pressure students experience, and Common University Entrance Test (CUET) has now become a large admission test with over 240 universities adopting it for admissions.
The National Credit Framework (NCrF) enables the seamless integration of all forms of learning from school to higher education and offers recognition of prior learning. It lays down the basic principles of creditization of learning from various dimensions, including academic, vocational skills, and experiential learning. The introduction of the Four Year Undergraduate Program (FYUP) in all disciplines with multiple entry and exit options will transform undergraduate education. HEIs must establish FYUP only when they have an adequate number of teachers and postgraduate programs with research facilities.
In conclusion, India’s focus on education reform is commendable, and HEIs must continue to strive for excellence, performance, and quality. Providing high-quality education to young populations is a good investment for India’s economy, social well-being, and economic prosperity of individuals. India must use digital technology to take education to students’ homes and democratise access to high-quality education. The establishment of NDU, CUET, NCrF, and FYUP will transform education in India, preparing students to be future-ready, good human beings, and lifelong learners.
