The significance of ethical education and interdisciplinary approaches in promoting societal change and nation-building cannot be overstated
The lives of students are amidst a major transformation, largely due to rapidly changing value systems across the globe. However, this transformation, driven solely by acquisition, is unlikely to yield positive results. Instead, it risks turning education, a highly revered institution, into a mere business venture where success is measured solely by material possessions. Moral and ethical education stands as the key to success, enabling the new generation to embrace values and approaches that can nurture the creative urges of the student community within an environment marked by rapid change. Nevertheless, we must acknowledge the challenges posed by this transitional phase.
Keywords such as knowledge, wisdom, creativity, motivation and encouragement are prerequisites for a successful education system. A competent education system must possess an inner strength capable of deploying myriad strategies to tackle unforeseen challenges. Fostering the latest skills and transmitting new moral codes and cognitive thinking subtly are crucial areas that can lay a robust foundation for the Viksit Bharat 2047 campaign.
While our education system is known for embracing values and approaches that shape the creative urges of students and academicians, it faces increasing challenges during this transitional phase. Efforts must be made to bridge the gap in existing knowledge regarding the contemporary importance of interdisciplinary and multidisciplinary studies. Higher education institutions in India need to enrich each discipline with diverse content and ideas. Even science students should be exposed to international, national, socio-political and economic issues through multidisciplinary practices, as initiated by NEP 2020. Such policies serve as catalysts for innovation and foster academic collaboration across multiple disciplines and institutions of higher learning.
In recent years, there has been substantial change in the content and nature of various disciplines, with a focused approach to integrating real-life experiments of democracy, the environment, globalisation and governance into the new education system framework. It’s crucial to demonstrate how new higher education approaches can drive change and instil confidence among the masses. The latest research and developments in education globally should be disseminated to upgrade research and teaching accordingly. The strength of the higher education system lies in its internal dynamism, ensuring inclusive growth and contributing significantly to the Viksit Bharat @2047 Campaign.
India’s entrepreneurial skills have propelled us forward, overcoming tertiary constraints and fostering innovation. Remarkable initiatives have focused on connectivity and developing new connections, rather than relying solely on the market or cut-throat competition. As Lucy Larcom once said, “If the world seems cold to you, kindle fire to warm it.” This sentiment rings true for our forgotten appreciation of traditional values and ethics. The vision of Viksit Bharat@2047 can be achieved by nurturing creativity and responsibility among students, equipping them with moral knowledge and employable skills. This not only broadens ethical horizons and enhances decision-making capabilities but also clarifies what is ethically and morally correct. Practical approaches and workshops can help develop skills through critical thinking and diverse forms of expression.
Ethics transcends clichés, prompting a shift from what is to what ought to be. It’s essential to instil a strong sense of responsibility alongside artistic and academic freedom. Despite years of efforts to eliminate major threats, terrorism, caste violence and class conflict persist. Blaming others for these issues is naive; we must acknowledge our role in them. Preservation of identity is important, but efforts to preserve cultural, linguistic, regional or religious identities sometimes damage the socio-political system’s fabric. The world also faces the spread of narrow-minded faith, but history shows that such faith seldom survives. A robust education system is needed to cultivate responsibility among the youth, playing a pivotal role in achieving our nation’s development goals.
Sensitising students and society through low-cost, intense webinars can be highly effective in this regard, particularly in an era of rapid globalisation. Mass media can play a role in political and social mobilisation, with student participation facilitating mass sensitisation. Improving course content through academic discourse and introducing innovative mechanisms in social sciences can enhance the relevance of education. Academic programmes and services should provide supplemental support to teaching and learning, fostering community development both inside and outside the classroom. Research centres should be established to ensure academic excellence in social sciences.
Intellectual skills should prepare students to engage with socio-economic and political issues on a global scale, fostering collaboration with stakeholders from other institutions. Community education programmes should encourage lifelong learning. To enhance student standards, self-academic orientation and excellence should be developed, incorporating problem-solving and inquiry-based learning activities in a collaborative environment. A new syllabus should provide insight into the problem of terrorism and its causes, paving the way for a comprehensive strategy to combat it. Understanding the nexus between organised crime and terrorism is crucial. Cultural exchanges among students can promote harmony and creativity, transcending social divisions. It’s imperative to focus on empirical and normative understandings to address societal concerns effectively. The Government’s inspiring vision for the future is promising, positioning India at the forefront globally.
In conclusion, the transformative journey of education towards Viksit Bharat@2047 necessitates a holistic approach, emphasising moral and ethical education alongside academic excellence. The challenges posed by rapid global changes require proactive measures to bridge knowledge gaps and foster interdisciplinary collaboration. It is imperative to instil a sense of responsibility and cultivate creativity among students to address contemporary issues effectively.
Efforts should focus on integrating real-life experiences into the education system and fostering critical thinking and problem-solving skills. Embracing diversity and inclusivity in education will strengthen the fabric of society and contribute to national development goals. Moreover, initiatives like low-cost webinars and mass media engagement can amplify the impact of education, promoting social awareness and civic engagement among the youth.
As we navigate through complex socio-political landscapes, it is crucial to uphold traditional values while embracing innovation and progress. By nurturing a generation equipped with moral clarity and practical skills, we can pave the way for a brighter future for India and the world. In essence, the journey towards Viksit Bharat@2047 requires collective efforts from educators, policymakers and society at large. By prioritising ethical education, fostering interdisciplinary learning and embracing diversity, we can build a strong foundation for a prosperous and inclusive future. Together, let us embark on this journey towards excellence, guided by the principles of integrity, empathy and resilience.
(The author, a recipient of the Bharat Gaurav award, is a professor and expert on strategic affairs; views are personal)
