Under Mr Modi’s new mandate, Indian education is in for some major reforms both in higher and school education. The government is planning to adopt a liberal approach similar to that of ancient Indian universities of Nalanda and Takshashila. It wants to integrate the rich Indian culture, tradition and knowledge with the modern learning.

Reshaping the age-old 10+2 format

The new education policy (NEP) proposes to introduce the 5+3+3+4 structure i.e. 5 years of foundational stage, 3 years of pre-primary class 1 and 2, followed by 3 years of preparatory stage, then 3 years of middle school and finally 4 years of secondary stage. 

Creating a stress-free learning environment

A new modular format will be introduced wherein the students will appear for the board exam in each subject at the end of a semester. In all at least 24 subject board exams or on an average 3 exams per semester will be taken in consideration.  This will help reduce the stress and pressure of board exams on children. 

Taking language a notch higher

Sanskrit could be the mode of instruction at least till class 5. It will be one of the optional languages at par with all scheduled 8 languages at all levels of school and higher education. At least 2 years of classical language will have to be undertaken for classes 6-8 which, if they desire, can be continued in secondary and university. 

Simplifying higher education

As regards higher education, the government plans to bring in a singular regulator – NHERA (National Higher Education Regulatory Authority). The higher education institutions will be made multi-disciplinary and facilitate high quality teaching, research and service to the students. The duration of undergraduate courses may extend to four years offering multiple exit options to them.  The students will have the option to opting for an integrated five-year bachelor’s/master’s program in addition to the one-year master’s program benefiting those who complete the four year program.

Other initiatives

The government has already started to offer scholarships through Scholarship Program for Diaspora Children (SPDC) for the academic year 2019-20. Over 800 scholarships will be awarded to Indian Expats to pursue higher education in India. Students of Indian-origin can study in premier Indian Institutes like IITs and NITs. 

Source: India Today