A rewarding education system!

What is the closest word one can think of whilst talking about Literacy? Education. Man's basic needs aren't just food, shelter and clothing anymore. In this high-paced world, wherein technology and the internet have revolutionized the era the way we work or do things have changed spectacularly! And how has the human race achieved it? Through knowledge, literacy, education! 

 

Here's some brief info on how the 'International Literacy Day' got recognition. At the 14th session of UNESCO's general conference in 1966, the first-ever International Literacy Day was declared. And, since then it has been celebrated annually on September 8, to highlight the importance of literacy to individuals and communities around the world.

 

According to the World Literacy Foundation, founded in 2003, more than 190 countries closed their school which affected the education of approximately 1.27 billion children and youth. These are the testing times and not just tough times I'd say. The world saw a drastic change in the teaching, learning patterns due to the pandemic. Despite the lockdown and restrictions worldwide; as all universities were closed down, online classes emerged as an example of the unstoppable spirit of the teaching profession. All the teachers and professors around the world gave their best to keep the show on. Some of them weren't even familiar with the technology and went through a slightly rough patch getting used to online classes for their students. Their only intention being imparting knowledge and not letting student's time and passion to learn, go in vain. Kudos to every single one of them for not letting learning come to a standstill whatsoever!

 

Being highly educated seems like an obligation these days. But, in today's era, does education mean having multiple degrees? To be honest, I have different views on the definition of education. To me, it simply implies learning things, concepts, skills, etc. formally or informally, which can be used for analytical thinking, real-life problem solving and making the world a better place to live!

 

Not whining, but taking a look at how things are going on, I don't think our current education system brings out the most within a child. It somehow compels students to just get good grades by learning things in a bookish manner. The tremendous ongoing competition has narrowed the thinking-out-of-the-box conception. I sometimes feel that a majority of students study just to clear their exams instead of comprehending the concepts and their real-life applications. Can this be turned around? Well, we mustn't forget where there's a will, there's a way! Impossible as it may seem, the goal is still realistic and can be achieved by adapting to changes. So, what can be done? Change the entire syllabus? Well, not really. Adding some valuable subjects which would be vital in the forthcoming years would help. Now you might be thinking, why add more to what's already enough? To answer it, the various subjects to be added should be the ones which are the need of the hour! Here are some of them:

1. Financial literacy- Teenage is that crucial time in our lives when we should learn about investing money as it's rightly said If you save money, money will save you.

2. Nutrition- Having a healthy diet and an active lifestyle for an extraordinary immunity and to keep health issues at bay is important too.

3. Time management- Getting things done in an organized and most efficient manner before deadlines while also being able to take out time for yourself and your family.

4.  Managing Stress- With so much on one's plate it'll be difficult to cope up with everything and everyone. Therefore, Stress management would help a lot.

5. Sports- Although Sports are already a part of the curriculum, they're often ignored. Sports are a significant part of our lives that keep us fit and healthy.

 Wishing you all a Happy International Literacy Day! 

In a nutshell, I'd like to say;

 Read today, Lead tomorrow!

 

- Rtr. Chaitanya Gadgil (RC Thane East).

A joint initiative by Rotaract Club Of Thane East and Roratact Club Of Pimpri (Pune)