Lets free OUR Education System
India got its freedom on 15th August 1947, during the last sixty three years we as a nation have progressed. But in this struggle to become one of the most developed countries we have forgotten that during the British rule we lost few important assets, which we might be not able to rebuild again.
'Education' is one of those. We had a True Education System, which has been lost over the period and in the hurry to be on the top.
'Vidhya' means knowledge; the outcome of Knowledge must be in realization. Brain plays a very vital role in human life. So, mind itself was primary subject in early days. The teaching of mind and analysis in thinking were necessary for getting knowledge.
In ancient education we have these specializations, which we, the present generation, doesn't even know. Few of those were: - Agni-sthana, for fire-worship and prayers
- Brahma-sthana, the study of Veda
- Vishnu-sthana, for teaching Raja-Niti, Arthaniti, and Vartta
- Mahendra-sthana, Military
- Vivasvata-sthana, study of Astronomy
- Somasthana, study of Botany
- Garuda-sthana, Transport and Conveyances
- Kartikeya-sthana, military organization, battalions, army.
Taxashila, the first university for education which accommodated 10,500 students from all over the world had more than SIXTY different specializations like Zoology, ayurveda, (Chhanda) Metrics, archery, Sabda (Vyakarana), physical sciences and the art of constructing sacrificial altars of various dimensions and shapes (Solid Geometry), properties of matter (dravyaguna), Vedas, philosophy, agriculture, surgery, politics, accounts, warfare, commerce, occult, music, dance, etc.
There were even curious subjects like the art of treasure hunting, decrypting encrypted messages, etc. The students would opt for electives and then would do in-depth study and research into their field of choice. That is why we had ancient inventors like Aaryabhatta origin of mathematics and Sushruta the father of Surgery.
Before independence the objective of education was development of personality, intrinsic and hidden capabilities. Main deliberation was LIFE, including DEATH and TRUTHS of whole-life and its VALUES. Participation is more important than winning the game. So, students accomplished a mental growth. That kind of education prepared students to handle any situation of life.
The British style of examination system and awarding degrees may be useful in some aspects, but it has made a very competitive, shrinking and apathetic environment in student's life. We are prepared to be machines that can mint money.
63 years back there was a revolution for our nation's independence and 63 later we need another revolution- freedom of the mind and self which can come only through an education system which imparts knowledge and enlightens minds.
HAPPY INDEPENDENCE DAY !!! |