Volume : 4, Issue : 10, October - 2015

Gandhian vision about higher education and its relevance in the 21st century

Dr Saloni Gupta, Rati Dhillon

Abstract :

<p>British rulers in the mid-18th century had introduced the system of colonial education system in India, which was later rejected in India after its independence. Many eminent leaders, social reformers and scholars voiced their opinions on this rejection. However, it was Mahatma Gandhi who vehemently rejected colonial education and instead put forward an alternative. Gandhi criticized that the colonial education same as western civilization which had the agenda to negate truth and non-violence, two areas which were most dear to Mahatma Gandhi. As per the Gandhian vision, colonial education could never be treated as a symbol of progress and he wanted education which would help India move away from the western concept of progress, towards something which is suited to Indian culture and is more viable for the whole world. The basis his vision towards education in both theory and practice is to evolve the society which is based on truth, non-violence, justice and equality. His main emphasis has been on imparting practical knowledge in form of manual work and art and crafts. In the present scenario, although, India has come a long way since independence, it still can choose an identity for its education system. Gandhian system can still be adopted in the country so as to promote practical education among students so that India can produce researchers, or scientists who are not dependent on bookish knowledge.</p>