Bringing back the glory of Tagore's Educational Philosophy

This is that time of the year when parents and students are in a crucial decision making phase regarding admission into college or higher secondary school. What is more important, the infrastructure and name of the college or the subjects the student will study in the next 3 years?

My suggestion always is the freedom to choose subjects of interest and curiosity over the name and fame of the college. An ordinary college offering subjects of interest and where one can get admission easily takes away the stress of admission. Stressfree admission process helps the student look forward to college life with positivity and cultivates in self the required enthusiasm to study or research topics close to their heart. A fruitful college life which builds a research mindset and fosters the spirit of interaction, lays a strong foundation for the future.

Rabindranath Tagore's short story,  Parrot's training is an eye opener on the bondage that education system as accepted by most people creates in the mind of learners. The currently accepted education system robs the spirit of thinking and creativity and freedom of expression.

We discuss cultuvating 21st century skills in our students and society as a whole, for a brighter tomorrow, at this juncture, I cannot but appreciate and revere the visionary that Rabindranath Tagore was when he established his school in 1901.  His school at Shanthiniketan was conceptualised by him to encourage Critical Thinking, Creativity, Communication through various art forms like music, painting, poetry and theatre. So, these are not 21st century skills, these are skills we have unfortunately forgotten in a world where our attention shifted more to competition,  materialism and technology.

 Tagore aimed at integrating the ancient with the modern and culmination of Eastern and Western cultures for living a wholesome life. Tagore emphasised upon "Method of Nature" as the best form of learning. He believed that students must be permitted to establish their own educational goals and must experience a sense of accomplishment on attaining those educational goals. Inner development, inner freedom, inner power and enlightenment  were important aspects of Tagore's views on education.

NEP 2020 aims to reestablish Tagore's education philosophy as best as possible by adapting to modern technological development and with an emphasis on regional language. 

A radical shift is necessary in society's understanding of the purpose of education and learning. Students must compulsorily be groomed to set goals for themselves from a young age. Such goal setting must be done independently and not be forced by society's norms or parental pressure.

Dreaming of an Indian society where board exams and marks hold no significance but freedom of choice in education and character building through education does.