Future Prospects in Education Sector
Class 12 Indian Economic Development — Remaining Challenges, Gender Equity, and the Way Forward for India's Education Sector
Education for All — Still a Distant Dream
The Literacy Paradox
Literacy rates have increased, but the absolute number of illiterates is still as much as India's population at independence.
In 1950, the Constitution directed free and compulsory education for all children up to age 14. Had we done this, we would have achieved 100% literacy by now.
Gender Equity — Better than Before
Gender Gap is Narrowing
The literacy gap between males and females is narrowing. Women's education must be promoted to improve their economic independence and social status, and to make a favourable impact on fertility and healthcare.
We cannot be satisfied until 100% literacy is achieved.
Beti Bachao, Beti Padhao
Beti Bachao, Beti Padhao
Save the Girl Child, Educate the Girl Child
Generate awareness and improve the efficiency of welfare services intended for girls in India.
Prevention of gender-biased sex-selective elimination
Ensuring survival and protection of the girl child
Ensuring education and participation of the girl child
Higher Education — A Few Takers
The Higher Education Paradox
The Indian education pyramid is steep — fewer and fewer people reach higher education. According to NSSO (2011-12):
19%
Rural Male Graduates
16%
Urban Male Graduates
~30%
Rural Female Graduates
3-6%
Primary Educated Youth
The government must increase higher education allocations and improve standards so that students are imparted employable skills.
Conclusion — The Way Forward
Key Takeaways
- The economic and social benefits of human capital formation and human development are well known
- Union and state governments have been allocating substantial amounts to develop the education and health sectors
- The spread of education and health services across all sectors should be ensured to simultaneously attain economic growth and equity
- India has a rich stock of scientific and technical manpower — we need to improve it qualitatively and utilize it within the country