On the occasion of 72nd Independence Day, we bring opinions from educationists on Education in Independent India - successes, challenges and opportunities. NexSchools wishes all of you best wishes on Independence Day and reaffirms commitment to spreading awesomeness in education and parenting by introspecting and informing.
Education in the pre-independence era was limited to the rich and influential castes. As the education system evolved, masses were allowed to gain education through schools.
The history of education in India has traversed many paths and also seen its fair share of trials and tribulations. Its many facets have been shaped by the influences of various dynasties that our rich history has experienced over decades.
Since independence in 1947, India has come a long way in terms of its literacy rate. With more universities and educational institutions, Indian students have a much better infrastructure for learning today. This piece tracks India's progress in the education sector since its independence.
"But we still have a long way to go....as it is rightly said....We have miles to go before we sleep."
With the advancement of science and technology, quick and easy access to education has become possible. Educational methodologies followed by various countries are being adopted even by our schools, colleges and universities. Best learning methods and effective teaching and learning styles are enabling our students to face the global challenges. Students from India are making a mark all around the world.
We hope to reach greater heights through our education methodologies and technologies.
Let's check out the development of the education system in India after independence, with the help of some statistics and information about the government's initiatives.
The Literacy Rate in India: 1951 to 2011
|
Year
|
% of Literates
|
|
|
Total
|
Male
|
Female
|
|
1951
|
18.33
|
27.16
|
8.86
|
|
1961
|
28.30
|
40.40
|
15.35
|
|
1971
|
34.45
|
45.96
|
21.97
|
|
1981
|
43.57
|
56.38
|
29.76
|
|
1991
|
52.21
|
64.13
|
39.29
|
|
2001
|
64.83
|
75.26
|
63.67
|
|
2011
|
74.04
|
82.14
|
65.46
|
Government Initiatives for the Development of Education:
These statistics indicate that, since 1947, India has been making steady progress.
-
Sarva Shiksha Abhiyan (SSA) for children from 6 to 14 years old was launched in 2000-2001, to impart compulsory elementary education to all.
-
The 'National Literacy Mission', one of the programs of the mission, targets adult education.
-
Mid day Meal Scheme
-
The 'Mahila Samakhya Programme' was launched in 1989 with an aim of giving quality education to women.
Besides these, opening more schools and colleges and making them digitally enabled is helping our education system reach greater heights, at par with the global education scene.
But we still have a long way to go....as it is rightly said....We have miles to go before we sleep.