21st-century Student Aspirations & Inclusive Education Challenges

In a symposium focussing on the educational landscape of the 21st century, experts gathered to discuss the evolving aspirations of modern students and the critical task of ensuring quality education reaches every corner of the nation and to address the challenges and opportunities presented by the rapidly changing educational environment. 

Dr Pankaj Mittal, Secretary General, National Assesment and accreditation Council (NAAC), highlighted the distinctive traits of 21st-century students, "These students understand the urgency of constant learning due to the rapid pace of technological advancement. They aspire to be problem solvers, team leaders and innovators who relish challenges and learn from their mistakes," she remarked. 

"While elite institutions serve a small fraction of students, technology holds the key to democratising education. Challenges like internet connectivity and bandwidth can be overcome with concerted efforts from the government and institutions," she added. 

Dr Shashank Shah, Director and Senior Specialist, Higher Education, Niti Aayog, lauded India's recent achievements and credited the higher education system for producing the scientists and researchers behind them. "Recent achievements, from moon landings to global recognition, highlight the transformative power of India's higher education system. Our scientists and researchers are products of this system, enabling them to achieve remarkable feats. Higher education's transformative power is evident in our global achievements.” 

However, it's crucial to focus on providing safe environments for learning, especially for socially disadvantaged groups and rural regions," Dr Shah emphasised.  

Echoing the sentiment, Vinesh Menon, CEO - Human Development & Social Impact, Ampersand Group, highlighted the dual challenges of technology and academia. "While technology and academia are progressing in their own domains, bridging the gap to reach the economically weaker sections remains a challenge. Despite remarkable digital penetration, the economic disparity and infrastructure issues persist," he remarked. 

"India's burgeoning digital presence, rising GDP and investments in technology indicate progress, but we must not overlook the vast section of society still grappling with economic hardships and illiteracy," the expert underlined. They were speaking at BW Education Super 30 Top Education Brands Awards & Summit.

Amisha Sharma

BW Reporters The author is a Trainee Correspondent at BW Businessworld