Sunday, 11 September 2022 | PNS | DEHRADUN
The traditional Vedic education system could provide the key to building a fulfilling education system. Skill India Academy MD and CEO, NITI Aayog mentor of change, Kaustubh Sonalkar said that if takes time for one to recall the last time one was engrossed in an hour long lecture in college, there is something seriously wrong with where the current education system is headed.
He says, “Vedic means the study of Vedas (knowledge), which comprises of ancient scriptures written in Sanskrit. While focusing on the godly Vedic education, we can’t help but ignore the current education system, that most of us are, or were, a part of. The admission process is complex and we are buried under a pile of paperwork, and tests that decide our fate. Once in the course, we are confused and seek help to gain the focus of slow-mo technology, in the form of external classes, even to learn the basics. By the time we’re approaching the finish line, we’re hit by amnesia and completely forgotten the purpose of joining the course.”
The Vedic education system on the other hand is unique. He adds, “The criteria for admission were the characteristics of the student. Good behaviour and dedication were appreciated over appearance or class. No heavy textbooks or lengthy notes to write. The Vedic system involved oral teaching and the students simply absorbed the information in their minds. This makes us wonder how stimulating the lectures must be for students to grasp the information without detailed analysis. Equality played a vital role. For the Gurus all Shishya were equal, irrespective of caste or gender. Eliminating the need for cut-throat competition, the only aim of Vedic education was to achieve salvation through education, that in the process teaches you to respect your religion and achieve an excellent student-teacher relationship.” Considering these aspects, Vedic education system might just be the answer to a fulfilling learning system, added Sonalkar.
