As the year draws to a close, we reflect upon the journey that India’s education system has embarked upon, post the rollout of the National Education Policy (NEP), 2020.. In the corridors of learning, the NEP has been at the back of many changes, reshaping the landscape of how students absorb knowledge and teachers impart wisdom. One of the crucial changes involves embracing a multidisciplinary approach, urging students to delve into diverse subjects and cultivate a comprehensive comprehension of knowledge, Maithili Tambe, CEO, The Academy School, told FE Education. “The policy underscores the importance of ongoing teacher training and professional development, ensuring that educators possess the essential skills to adeptly implement the new approaches,” she said.
Experts believe the NEP emphasised on the importance of incorporating arts, sports and vocational education into the curriculum. After NEP’s adoption, schools have broadened their extracurricular offerings, embracing activities such as music, dance, painting and sports. “Moreover, the NEP acknowledges the significance of fostering Indian languages, advocating for schools to prioritise teaching in the mother tongue or regional languages during the initial phases of education. In regions where Hindi is predominant, students may receive instruction in subjects like Mathematics, Science and Social Studies in Hindi. This approach nurtures cultural pride and promotes linguistic diversity,” Rashmi Mittal, pro chancellor, Lovely Professional University, said.
Departing from the era of rote memorisation, the spotlight now illuminates critical thinking, problem-solving and the practical application of knowledge. This evolution unfolds through a deliberate emphasis on experiential learning, hands-on activities and the seamless integration of technology within the classroom. Notably, the NEP takes centre stage in championing this paradigm shift. “Furthermore, the NEP brings relief by curbing the number of board exams and introducing multiple exit options in higher education, empowering students with greater autonomy over their academic journeys and alleviating the burdens of stress,” Lalit Sachan, co- founder, Edvancer, said.