National Education Day in India is celebrated every year on the 11th of November to commemorate the rich contributions of freedom fighter turned first Union Education Minister Maulana Abul Kalam Azad.
The Ministry of Human Resource Development in 2008 had made a formal announcement to celebrate the birthday of Bharat Ratna Azad as the National Education Day. This was meant to remember the exceptional contributions of Azad to uplifting education in the nation.
Azad was a visionary who promoted ideas of education for all, going beyond the then-societal limitations of not educating girls. He advocated for providing free education to children up to the age of 14.
During his tenure as the education minister of India from August 15, 1947 to February 2, 1958, he established many premium educational institutions, including the Indian Institute of Technology (IIT) in 1951. He also constituted the University Grants Commission, popularly known by its abbreviation UGC in 1953.
New India’s footsteps towards education
India which is currently celebrating its 75th year of Independence is focused on holistic development in every sector including in education. The promising ‘New Education Policy, 2020’ has opened new dimensions of progress by making the whole education scenario more approachable.
In an interview with Odishatv.in, D Murali Krishna, Chairman, Vikash Group of Institutions said, “On the 75th year of independence, India is now transforming itself as the power hub of the world. Our traditional gurukul education system serves as the foundation for the growth of this country. Today India is dominating the entire world in many sectors due to this strong educational background.”
On being asked about the New Education Policy, he said; “The New Education Policy will be more inclusive in nature and will help in identifying the true potential of students. The policy will bring in a more holistic approach towards the overall learning process by bringing more enjoyment and engagement as well”.
He added, “With this new policy, the biggest problem of our education system --- increasing number of drop-outs --- will be solved, and the state will see progress with skill-based learning.”
A quotation by Abul Kalam Azad:
“No program of national education can be appropriate if it does not give full consideration to the education and advancement of one-half of the society that is women.”
Odishatv.in, wishes all a “Happy National Education Day”