My Reflections on Education

I am not entirely sure what motivated me to write this piece on education. I am neither an academic, an academic administrator, nor an education policymaker. However, I have always had a deep and abiding interest in education and thoroughly enjoy interacting with students and others involved in the education sector. Incidentally, I am associated with a reputed academic institution as a Visiting Professor, although my full-time profession is Civil & Structural Engineering Consultancy. I hold immense respect for teachers, professors, and researchers, as they are the true architects of the destiny of any society, nation, or race. In this blog, my primary focus is on higher education. Out of interest I recorded two episodes of my podcast Samवाद focused to education. Link of both episodes is given at end.

Education holds different meanings for different individuals, shaped by how they perceive its value. At its core, education enlightens the mind, nurtures critical thinking, and drives innovation. As Dr. A.P.J. Abdul Kalam aptly said, "Education is the most powerful weapon which you can use to change the world." Beyond academics, education should bridge social divides, uniting people from diverse backgrounds while fostering mutual respect and understanding. I firmly believe that true education not only imparts knowledge but also shapes moral values and builds personal character. Through the power of learning, it empowers individuals to contribute positively to society and realize their full potential. It is essential to recognize the clear distinction between information, knowledge, skill, and education, each playing a unique role in the broader journey of learning.

"Education's purpose is to teach us how to think, not what to think—it is to improve our minds so as to enable us to think for ourselves." – John Dewey

Information is like raw facts and data. It is like the pieces of a puzzle. For example, knowing that water boils at 100°C is information. Knowledge is what you get when you put the pieces of the puzzle together. It is the understanding and awareness of information. For example, knowing that water boils at 100°C because the heat causes the molecules to move faster and change state is knowledge. Skill is the ability to do something well, often because of practice and application. It is the practical use of knowledge and information. For example, being able to boil water to make tea properly is a skill. On the other hand, Education is the structured process of learning and gaining information, knowledge, and skills. It is the journey of growing and developing intellectually and practically. For example, going to school and learning about science, then doing experiments to in action and in real life, is education.

So, we can say education is the process that helps us gather information, transform it into knowledge, and develop skills to use that knowledge effectively. Both formal and informal education play crucial roles in a person's overall development, and they complement each other in many ways. Formal education is very structured, disciplined and usually have access to experienced teachers, libraries, laboratories, and other resources. Informal education is flexible it happens anytime, anywhere and it is without any structure. People can learn practical skills, can pursue personal interests through informal education. In a way it is lifelong education. Both have complimentary roles and are important for holistic development. Formal and informal education are like two sides of the same coin, each enriching and supporting the other to foster a well-rounded and knowledgeable individual.

Education in ancient India was deeply intertwined with its rich cultural and spiritual heritage. The system primarily revolved around the Gurukul tradition, where students lived and learned under the guidance of their teachers (gurus) in a residential setup. This approach emphasized holistic development, nurturing not only academic knowledge but also moral, physical, and spiritual growth. Modern fully residential schools and colleges echo elements of this concept, though in a contemporary context. The following verses from Hindu scriptures beautifully encapsulate the foundational values of education in ancient Indian thought: truth, humility, devotion, and the pursuit of continuous learning.

ऋग्वेदः (Rigveda 1.89.1) "आ नो भद्राः क्रतवो यन्तु विश्वतः।" Meaning: Let noble thoughts come to us from every side. This verse emphasizes the importance of learning and being open to knowledge from all directions and sources.

तैत्तिरीयोपनिषद् (Taittiriya Upanishad, Shiksha Valli 1.11.1) "सत्यं वद, धर्मं चर, स्वाध्यायान्मा प्रमदः।" Meaning: Speak the truth, follow the path of righteousness, and do not neglect self-study. This shloka underscores the essence of education as a continual, righteous pursuit of truth.

भगवद्गीता (Bhagavad Gita 4.34) "तद्विद्धि प्रणिपातेन परिप्रश्नेन सेवया। उपदेक्ष्यन्ति ते ज्ञानं ज्ञानिनस्तत्त्वदर्शिनः॥" Meaning: Learn by approaching a wise teacher with humility, inquiry, and service. The enlightened ones will impart knowledge to you. It conveys the value of mentorship and humility in acquiring wisdom.

मनुस्मृतिः (Manu Smriti 2.121) "विद्या ददाति विनयं, विनयाद्याति पात्रताम्। पात्रत्वाद्धनमाप्नोति, धनाद्धर्मं ततः सुखम्॥" Meaning: Education breeds humility; humility leads to worthiness. Worthiness brings wealth, and wealth enables one to perform righteous deeds, leading to happiness. This highlights the transformative power of education in achieving personal and societal happiness.

I am aware of the virtues of education, having experienced them firsthand throughout my journey. Most of my schooling took place in government-run schools in Uttar Pradesh, Uttarakhand, and Delhi. These schools, though equipped with basic infrastructure, were blessed with dedicated and enthusiastic teachers. I still remember many of their names, their lessons, and even the resonance of their voices in my mind. These teachers were instrumental in nurturing my interest in Mathematics, Sciences, and literature—both Hindi and English. Many of the schools I attended were situated in small towns and remote areas, bringing together students from diverse backgrounds. Studying in such environments and mingling with classmates taught me invaluable lessons about life and culture. At that time, I could not imagine any school being better than mine.

Later, I was fortunate to study at one of the finest private institutions in India, BITS Pilani, for my engineering degree. Nestled in the small, sleepy town of Pilani, which lacked major city connectivity back then, BITS was a trailblazer in education. Even in the early 1980s, it boasted modern infrastructure, a sprawling and beautiful green campus, and exceptionally bright students from across India. The institute was ahead of its time, with progressive features like a zero-attendance policy, a vast library (which, in my view, was magnificent), a modular cafeteria system, and relative grading. It offered unparalleled academic flexibility: the freedom to choose teachers, craft timetables, pursue dual degrees simultaneously, accelerate or decelerate the program, take additional electives, and opt for extra courses. The innovative Practice School system provided practical exposure, while a state-of-the-art computer centre and a team of dedicated, passionate, and knowledgeable professors further enriched the learning experience. The five years I spent at BITS Pilani shaped me into the person I am today. I have countless fond memories of my batchmates, professors, hostels, and the overall campus life. While the formal education system was well-structured and flexible, there were also abundant opportunities for informal learning, which played an equally vital role in my growth. In my view, the BITS model of education—characterized by its flexibility, modern infrastructure, and emphasis on fostering curiosity—is one that all institutions in India should strive to emulate. 

Over the past three decades, there has been a remarkable transformation in students’ aspirations and the growth of the education sector in India. While the sector has expanded multifold in size, it continues to grapple with significant challenges. Among these are inadequate infrastructure, a decline in the quality of education and research, and a shortage of dedicated and passionate teachers. Many educational institutions now operate on a business-driven model, prioritizing profit over the essence of learning. Furthermore, the Indian education system remains highly regulated, which has led to widespread malpractices, deep-rooted corruption, and systemic biases. 

The modern formal education system is organized into multiple tiers, both in India and globally. These typically include:

Pre-primary: For children aged 3 to 6 years

Primary: From ages 6 to 14 years

Secondary: From ages 14 to 18 years

Undergraduate: Usually lasting 3 to 4 years

Master’s: Typically, 1 to 2 years

Doctoral (Ph.D.): Often spanning 4 to 5 years.

While this basic structure remains consistent across most countries, the curriculum and duration of each stage can vary to address regional needs and priorities. For instance, in some nations, students are allowed to specialize in specific subjects earlier during secondary education, while in others, a more general curriculum is followed until advanced stages. These differences reflect the diverse approaches to education worldwide, shaped by cultural, economic, and developmental factors. Globally, higher education systems share a structured progression from undergraduate to postgraduate levels, offering degrees such as Bachelor's, Master's, and Doctorates. A notable trend is the increasing integration of technology in education, including online courses and distance learning. Research and innovation are emphasized worldwide, with universities often collaborating internationally to address global challenges. Moreover, many countries actively attract international students, acknowledging the cultural and economic advantages they bring.

Despite some similarities, higher education systems across the globe exhibit significant differences shaped by cultural, economic, and historical factors. In India, the higher education system is intensely competitive, particularly for prestigious institutions like IITs, IIITs, IIMs, IISc, BITS, and top central universities. Entrance exams such as JEE, CAT, NEET, BITSAT, and CUET play a pivotal role in admissions. The focus traditionally leans towards STEM fields, although liberal arts are gradually gaining recognition. While public universities are subsidized and more affordable, the quality of education across institutions in India varies significantly.

In contrast, higher education in the USA is distinguished by its flexibility. Students can choose or switch majors and minors, and the system adopts a holistic approach that emphasizes extracurricular activities and internships. However, the high cost of education often forces students to rely on loans. The USA is home to globally renowned institutions like Harvard, MIT, and Stanford. Europe offers a diverse array of education systems, with countries like Germany and the Nordic nations providing free or low-cost higher education, reflecting their belief in education as a public good. The Bologna Process has standardized European universities, facilitating the transfer of credits and degrees. Vocational education and training (VET) programs are prominent, though countries like the UK impose higher tuition fees, especially for international students. Elsewhere, countries like Japan and South Korea place immense value on education, characterized by discipline and rigorous study. Entrance exams are central to admissions. Australia's education system combines aspects of both the UK and the US, with a mix of public and private funding and a strong focus on research and attracting international students. Meanwhile, many Middle Eastern countries are making significant investments in higher education to build knowledge-based economies, establishing new institutions and forging partnerships with foreign universities.

While India’s education system serves as a cornerstone of the nation's development, it also faces systemic challenges. Institutions like IITs and IIMs symbolize academic excellence but cater to only a small fraction of the population, leaving millions to contend with substandard education. Universities grapple with outdated curricula, bureaucratic inefficiencies, and insufficient research output. Despite efforts at reform and technological advancements, the disparity between access to and quality of education remains a formidable obstacle to India’s vision of equitable and inclusive growth.

India allocates approximately 4.0% of its GDP to education, spanning all levels from primary to higher education. Specifically, about 0.6% is dedicated to higher education, focusing on institutions, research, and development. In comparison, the USA spends around 6.1% of its GDP on education, with 2.4% allocated to higher education, emphasizing a holistic and flexible approach despite its high costs. Germany commits 4.8% of its GDP to education, with 1.2% directed toward higher education, reflecting its focus on affordable and high-quality learning. Similarly, Japan invests 3.6% of its GDP in education, with 1.0% allocated to higher education, maintaining a disciplined and rigorous system. European countries like France and the UK allocate 5.4% and 3.9% of GDP to education, respectively, with 1.4% and 1.5% going toward higher education. These figures highlight the low investment India makes in education compared to other leading nations. Despite being the world's most populous country, India’s per capita expenditure on education remains significantly lower, which is evident in the quality of its infrastructure, education, and research.

India's education system is a blend of accomplishments and challenges. On the positive side, it emphasizes core subjects like mathematics and science, offers a diverse curriculum, and has gained global recognition. Competitive exams prepare students for prestigious careers, and initiatives like the Digital India campaign aim to enhance access and innovation. However, the system heavily relies on rote learning, with significant disparities in quality and infrastructure. Overcrowded classrooms limit personalized learning, while high-stakes exams place immense pressure on students. In higher education, affordability and diverse specializations are strengths, but issues such as outdated curricula, insufficient research funding, and bureaucratic inefficiencies remain significant hurdles. Bridging these gaps is essential to achieving equitable and inclusive growth within India's education system.

According to the All-India Survey on Higher Education (AISHE) 2021-22, many Indian institutions lack essential modern facilities, with only 60% of colleges having computer labs and 40% possessing libraries. The National Institutional Ranking Framework (NIRF) 2024 highlights a significant disparity between top-tier institutions like IITs and other colleges, with only 20% meeting high-quality standards. India's expenditure on research and development (R&D) is just 0.64% of GDP, far behind countries like China (2.4%) and the USA (3.5%). The National Employability Report 2024 reveals that 80% of engineering graduates are unemployable due to outdated curricula misaligned with industry demands. Administrative inefficiencies exacerbate the issue, with 30% of faculty positions in public universities remaining vacant due to slow recruitment processes. Furthermore, only 50% of faculty members in higher education institutions have participated in professional development programs (AISHE 2021-22). The India Skills Report 2024 indicates that just 45% of graduates meet industry employability standards. Additionally, higher education remains financially inaccessible for many, with only 28.4% of the eligible age group (18-23 years) enrolled in higher education institutions. The average student-teacher ratio in India is 30:1, significantly higher than the global average of 15:1. Corruption and favoritism in admissions and recruitment processes further erode the system’s fairness and quality.

India faces significant challenges in graduate unemployability and its research and development (R&D) sector, which hinder its global competitiveness. Outdated curricula, rote learning methods, demotivated uninspiring professors/mentors and limited vocational training have created a skill gap, leaving graduates unprepared for industry demands. Weak industry-academia collaboration further widens the divide between academic knowledge and practical applications, while a stark quality disparity between elite institutions and other colleges exacerbates the issue. Similarly, India’s R&D sector is hindered by limited funding, inadequate infrastructure, and a fragmented ecosystem. Weak collaboration between industry and academia stifles innovation and the commercialization of research, compounded by plagiarism, low-quality output, and predatory journals that undermine credibility. Social factors, including gender bias and systemic barriers, restrict diversity in academia and discourage talented individuals from pursuing careers in India, with many opting for opportunities abroad due to better funding and facilities. Addressing these challenges requires modernized curricula, stronger industry-academia partnerships, investment in R&D, improved infrastructure, ethical research practices, global collaborations, and a focus on diversity and interdisciplinary approaches.

The Indian government has introduced various initiatives to improve education and research, focusing on inclusivity, quality, and innovation. In education, the National Education Policy (NEP) 2020 aims to create a holistic and flexible system with reforms like the 5+3+3+4 structure, early childhood education, and mother tongue-based instruction. Programs like Sarva Shiksha Abhiyan (SSA) and Samagra Shiksha enhance access, quality, and equity in school education, while the Mid-Day Meal Scheme addresses malnutrition and boosts attendance. Digital initiatives such as PM eVIDYA and DIKSHA promote online learning, and the National Achievement Survey (NAS) evaluates student outcomes to guide policy improvements.

In research, initiatives like the National Research Foundation (NRF) and Higher Education Financing Agency (HEFA) fund projects and develop infrastructure. Programs like IMPRINT India and Uchhatar Avishkar Yojana (UAY) encourage industry-academia collaboration, while SPARC promotes partnerships with global universities. The STARS scheme supports advanced research, and the Atal Innovation Mission (AIM) fosters creativity and entrepreneurship. Collectively, these efforts aim to modernize India's education and research landscape, ensuring inclusivity, technological integration, and global competitiveness. 

The National Education Policy (NEP) 2020 envisions transforming India's education system into an inclusive, flexible, and future-ready framework suitable for the 21st century. It emphasizes universal access to education, quality early childhood care, and introduces a new 5+3+3+4 structure, reimagining the progression of learning stages. The policy promotes multilingual education, holistic learning by breaking barriers between streams, and reformed assessment methods that prioritize skills and critical thinking over rote memorization. NEP 2020 also underscores inclusivity, aiming to uplift disadvantaged groups, enhance teacher recruitment and training, and increase higher education enrolment to 50% by 2035. Among its key initiatives are fostering research through the establishment of the National Research Foundation, integrating technology into education, and creating a unified regulatory authority, the Higher Education Commission of India (HECI).

As I delved into NEP 2020, I could not help but wonder if it drew inspiration from visionary institutions like BITS Pilani, with its progressive approach to education. While the policy incorporates numerous forward-thinking elements, its implementation has been painstakingly slow and, unfortunately, entangled in political controversies.

India's higher education landscape is diverse, with universities categorized as central (56), state (479), deemed (124), and private (455). Despite progress, challenges persist. The University Grants Commission (UGC) has flagged the presence of several fake universities. On a brighter note, the Gross Enrolment Ratio (GER) has improved to 28.4%, with 43.3 million students enrolled, though disparities in access and quality remain. Addressing these issues requires stricter regulation against fake institutions, equitable access to quality education, and improved oversight to ensure consistent standards across universities and engineering colleges. These steps are critical for enhancing India's higher education sector's global reputation and outcomes.

When I look back at the schools and colleges I attended and the experiences I had there, I feel a sense of sadness when comparing them to the current situation. The opportunities and dedication that were once prevalent seem to be fading. While the government is making some efforts, they are insufficient to bring about meaningful change. India has a young and talented population eager to learn and grow. Many students possess a burning desire to succeed, yet our education system is failing them. Outdated teaching methods, inadequate infrastructure, unmotivated faculty, and limited support deprive many students of the opportunities they deserve. This is a loss not only for the students but for the nation as a whole. Amidst this chaos, it feels overly optimistic to hope for the inclusion of values and character-building in the process.

It is time for the government, academic administrators, education policymakers, teachers, and professors to work together with clear focus and determination to fix these issues. They need to update the curriculum, improve facilities, encourage practical learning, and make education more accessible to everyone. Only by doing this can we help students reach their potential. Education is the foundation of a strong and prosperous nation. If you ask me what single issue government must fix, I will say quality of teachers & professors. If India wants to grow and compete on the global stage, we need to take bold steps to improve our education system. Working together, we can create an education system that inspires students, supports teachers, and strengthens the future of our country.

[MANOJ MITTAL, NOIDA, March 13,2025]

Samवाद Podcast episode on Education 1 link:

https://open.spotify.com/episode/3PMwImbm40cHgsjUL4xrCo?si=LlJ2MCmEQ6yvpU3PmDHSXA

Samवाद Podcast episode on Education 2 link:

https://open.spotify.com/episode/2orLfU5cBT5eRfj4yA62vx?si=ASbTQPESTDK0gnZDnoLZGQ

NOTE: Data used in this blog have been taken from various sources. They may differ from actual current data but point being made will still hold good.

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