Union Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan stated that under the NEP, emphasis will be placed on teaching children in their mother tongue, reducing dropout rates, and fostering job creation, leading to better educational and employment opportunities.
Education Conclave: Union Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan recently discussed at length the significant changes in the education sector following the implementation of the National Education Policy (NEP) at an Education Conclave. He explained that the NEP will not only simplify children's education but also positively impact their mental development and employment prospects. This new education policy aims to prevent students from facing confusion or disorientation after completing their schooling.
Challenges in the Education Sector and the Role of NEP
Dharmendra Pradhan highlighted that India's education system has long grappled with numerous challenges. The dropout rate, in particular, is alarmingly high. Currently, approximately 40 percent of students discontinue their schooling midway, posing a significant problem. He emphasized that the objective of education should not be merely to obtain a degree but to create a system that prepares individuals for employment.
The NEP addresses this challenge. It focuses on providing students from KG to class 12 with a minimum level of understanding and competency to enable them to progress towards a better future.
Special Focus on Early Childhood Care
The Education Minister stated that the NEP, for the first time, seriously addresses ‘Early Childhood Care and Education’ (ECCE). This policy acknowledges that a child's mental development is largely complete by the sixth grade, making early childhood education crucial.
While Balwadis and playschools existed previously, a structured and dedicated system is now being developed for three-year-old children. This step will help strengthen children's foundational skills, leading to better overall development.
Education in Mother Tongue: For Better Comprehension
A major change introduced by the NEP is the use of the mother tongue as the medium of instruction in the early classes. The Education Minister explained that this decision was made based on expert advice, recognizing that children find it easier to grasp fundamental knowledge and concepts in their mother tongue.
From class 1 to 5, children will study in two languages, one being their mother tongue and the other a language of their choice. This will boost children's confidence and improve their academic performance.
New Strategies to Reduce Dropout Rates
Dharmendra Pradhan stated that reducing dropout rates is a government priority. Under the NEP, the education system will be structured to maintain children's interest in their studies throughout their schooling.
Focus on Job Creation and Skill Development
The Education Minister stressed that education should not be limited to obtaining a degree but should help young people become job creators. The NEP places special emphasis on skill development and employment.
This policy will prepare young people to start businesses, learn entrepreneurship, and pursue self-employment opportunities. This will not only increase the number of employed individuals in India but also the number of employers.
