Democratising education in India means making it inclusive, equitable, and accessible to all, irrespective of socio-economic background. Here's how it can be done
Democratising education in India means making it inclusive, equitable, and accessible to all, irrespective of socio-economic background.
Image: Shutterstock
While India has many top educational institutions of world standard, like the IITs, IIMs, AIIMS and other top colleges, beyond the first tier, there is a large vacuum in quality higher education opportunities. This is especially true for Tier II and smaller cities and towns. The top institutions offer admission to a fraction of the aspirants who are privileged enough to afford it. With a burgeoning population and a dynamic socio-economic fabric, there is an urgency to bridge the chasm between the academically privileged and the masses and make education accessible and affordable, transcending traditional barriers.
Education is a fundamental right and a critical tool for socio-economic mobility. Democratising education in India means making it inclusive, equitable, and accessible to all, irrespective of socio-economic background. This is not just a moral imperative but an economic one, too. According to a World Bank report, equitable education can substantially increase India's GDP growth.
India, with its vast and diverse population, faces a unique challenge in education. Â
The advent of digital learning platforms has begun to bridge the educational divide. Massive Open Online Courses (MOOCs), e-learning portals, and government initiatives like SWAYAM (Study Webs of Active Learning for Young Aspiring Minds) are pivotal in this transformation. These platforms offer a range of courses from top universities at minimal or no cost.
[This article has been published with permission from IIM Bangalore. www.iimb.ac.in Views expressed are personal.]