Vice President Jagdeep Dhankhar raised significant concerns regarding the commercialisation of education, asserting that it is adversely affecting the quality of learning and has far-reaching implications for the nation’s future. His remarks came during a function organised by a private educational institute in Sikar, Rajasthan, where he emphasized the need to prioritize the essence of education as a charitable pursuit rather than a profit-driven venture.
A shift from charity to commerce
During his speech, Dhankhar lamented that what once began as an altruistic endeavour has now evolved into a commercial enterprise. “I see all around that what began as charitable work has now become commerce. Education becoming a business is not good for the future of the nation,” he stated. The Vice President articulated that education should not be perceived as a source of income but as a medium for sacrifice and charity aimed at building a healthier and more informed society. He highlighted the troubling reality that education is now treated as a commodity, sold for profit, leading to a decline in its overall quality.
“In some cases, it is even taking the shape of extortion. This is a matter of concern,” he remarked, emphasising that the trend of commodifying education undermines its fundamental purpose.
The role of industry in education
Dhankhar stressed the importance of financial sustainability for educational institutions, asserting that while they should be economically viable, it is crucial for industries to support them. He urged corporate entities to utilize their Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) funds more generously to build educational institutions and fund new courses. This collaboration between industry and education, according to Dhankhar, would not only enhance educational quality but also contribute significantly to national progress.
“Industries are the biggest beneficiaries of research and innovations, which give power to the nation in front of the world,” he added, underscoring the reciprocal relationship between educational institutions and the industry. By investing in education, businesses can secure a skilled workforce that drives innovation and growth.
Addressing brain drain
Highlighting the trend of Indian students seeking education abroad, Dhankhar pointed out the wealth of opportunities available within the country. He encouraged educational institutions and industry leaders to raise awareness about these opportunities to mitigate the brain drain and preserve foreign exchange. “The youth generally run behind 8-10 types of jobs, but there are huge opportunities across various sectors. The basket of opportunities is getting bigger every day, but most of our students are not fully exposed to it,” he stated.
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To combat this issue, Dhankhar called for a concerted effort to inform students about the diverse career paths available in India. “I call upon the educational institutions and industry leaders to hold seminars and make the students aware of the different avenues available to them,” he urged, advocating for a proactive approach to career guidance.
Emphasizing technological integration
The Vice President also addressed the potential of technology in enhancing the quality of education. He called for the optimal use of technology to provide quality learning experiences to students. By integrating advanced technological tools in the classroom, educational institutions can offer more engaging and effective learning environments that cater to the needs of modern students.
Additionally, Dhankhar praised the National Education Policy (NEP), describing it as a “game changer.” He highlighted the policy’s potential to revolutionize the education sector in India by making it more accessible, flexible, and aligned with contemporary global standards.
Vice President Jagdeep Dhankhar’s remarks underscore the critical need to reevaluate the current landscape of education in India. As the commercialisation of education continues to pose challenges, his call for a return to the principles of charity and sacrifice, alongside industry collaboration and technological integration, offers a pathway toward enhancing the quality of education. By fostering awareness of domestic opportunities and supporting educational institutions, stakeholders can collectively work towards a more informed, skilled, and prosperous future for the nation.
