National Education Day'23: Know Pioneers Of Indian Education

Savitribai Phule

Known as a notable social reformer, educator, poet and the ‘mother of feminism’ in India. Savitribai Phule fought against widowhood, child marriage and the denial of women's educational rights. Savitribai Phule is reported to received her education from her husband first, then from his friends and later she enrolled in two teaching programmes after completing her degree. She has dedicated her life to advancing women's rights, she was commited to the upliftment of the oppressed classes, especially women, she continues to inspire activists and educators alike. Savitribai Phule has won several awards and recognitions and to honour her contribution to reshaping India's educational system, a number of institutes bear her name.

Chanakya

Chanakya’s original name was ‘Vishnu Gupta’, well known as ancient Indian lawyer, economist, philosopher, teacher and counsellor to the king. His focus was on moral principles, leadership development and holistic education. Chanakya's vision was to continues to serve as a beacon of hope. His most famous contribution is the Arthashastra, Chanakya Niti, Political Strategy and Economic Philosophy. 

Sarvepalli Radhakrishnan

A well-known visionary educationist, a philosopher, a scholar and the second president of India. As an educationist, Radhakrishnan supported the holistic growth of people’s education, by highlighting the value of cross-cultural understanding and international collaboration in education. Radhakrishnan's philosophical writings were ‘Indian Philosophy’ and ‘The Philosophy of Rabindranath Tagore’, have been used as teaching tools by numerous students. Sarvepalli Radhakrishnan publications created a holistic and all-encompassing approach to education and through that a conventional knowledge system was fostered.