The Right to Excellence – Online School Summit, organized by The Times of India, brought together education experts to explore the evolving landscape of learning in India. The discussion focused on the integration of online and offline education, with panelists emphasizing that a hybrid model is key to meeting diverse student needs.
The panel featured notable experts, including Senthil Kumaran, Chief Confluencer & Co-founder of The Learners Confluence; Arun Rajamani, Managing Director, Cambridge International; Joseph Emmanuel, CEO of CISCE; and Anirudh Kumar, Joint Director, Education & Research Network, Ministry of Electronics & IT.
The Hybrid Model: Aligning Education with Student Needs
Senthil Kumaran stressed that the debate should not be about choosing between online and offline education, but rather about integrating them effectively.
“We are talking about how exactly we can align together to make a difference for the aspirational child,” he said.
He highlighted that leveraging both modes of learning allows students to learn at their own pace, ensuring better comprehension and engagement.
Bridging the Gap with Digital Education
Anirudh Kumar outlined the government’s efforts to expand digital education, particularly in rural and remote areas.
“We have converted more than 3,500 classrooms to digital education, especially in the Northeast,” he shared.
He cited online tutoring programs that have successfully helped students prepare for competitive exams, emphasizing that technology removes barriers, making quality education more accessible and affordable.
“Equitable access, gender-neutral content, and affordability are key factors in the Indian context,” he added.
The Role of Online Education in Traditional Learning
Joseph Emmanuel, CEO of CISCE, pointed out that online education enhances traditional learning rather than replacing it.
“India is looking for an affordable and accessible model. The five pillars of NEP—equity, excellence, affordability, accessibility, and accountability—can be achieved by utilizing digital technology effectively,” he stated.
However, he also noted that while smart boards and digital tools are available in many classrooms, teacher training remains a major challenge.
“Smart boards exist, but how many teachers are maximizing their potential?” he questioned.
Global Perspectives on Digital Learning
Arun Rajamani highlighted that online schools were already in existence before the Covid-19 pandemic, but the crisis accelerated awareness, enrollment, and adoption of digital education.
“Covid played a major role in increasing awareness, enrollment, and adoption of digital education,” he said.
Drawing insights from global trends, Rajamani emphasized that hybrid learning models allow for personalized learning experiences, catering to students with different learning speeds and requirements.
The Future of Education in India
The panel discussion made it clear that digital education is not a replacement for offline learning but a valuable supplement. With government initiatives strengthening digital infrastructure and private institutions innovating with online platforms, India is moving toward a blended learning approach.
As Senthil Kumaran summarized:
“The goal is to create a system where students can learn what they want, when they want, and how they want.”
This shift toward hybrid education models could ensure that students across India receive flexible, inclusive, and high-quality education, preparing them for the demands of the 21st century.
