NEP 2020 Focuses on Aptitude, Ethics, Skills, and Equality
In a compelling keynote address at the “Social Harmony and Education” seminar hosted by Bharat Vikas Parishad, Union Minister Dr. Jitendra Singh described the National Education Policy (NEP) 2020 as a revolutionary reform that blends education with aptitude, ethos, egalitarian values, and vocational skills. Speaking to a gathering of educationists, thinkers, and social workers, Dr. Singh referred to NEP 2020 as a “game-changer” in India’s efforts to align its education system with its civilizational values and economic needs.
Dr. Singh emphasized that NEP 2020 is not just a reform of curriculum or teaching methods—it is a comprehensive realignment of the entire educational approach. He highlighted that the policy aims to break free from colonial legacies and reintroduce a learning model that fosters self-awareness, individual growth, and national unity. “It brings education, skill, culture, and equality into one system,” he said, stressing the policy’s commitment to inclusive development.
Criticism of Past Educational Models
Dr. Singh strongly criticized older education models rooted in colonial frameworks, arguing that they failed to build national character or instill pride among Indian students. He expressed concern over the system’s failure to produce socially responsible and self-confident individuals, despite widespread degree-holding. According to him, many traditional degree-oriented systems overlooked values such as wisdom, moral discipline, and human connection.
“The NEP will free our children and parents from the dogmas of a flawed system,” he said, reiterating that the policy allows students to choose subjects they are passionate about and pursue them with depth and flexibility.
Emphasizing Vocational and Flexible Learning
One of the key reforms under NEP 2020, according to Dr. Singh, is its flexible structure. The policy eliminates the outdated concept of “drop-outs” by introducing multiple entry and exit points in academic courses, empowering students to pause and resume their studies without losing progress. He noted that this freedom will allow students to explore career paths more confidently and meaningfully.
The integration of vocational education from school level was highlighted as a major step toward skill development. Dr. Singh said that the reforms allow students to develop practical capabilities along with academic knowledge, making them better prepared for real-world challenges.
Social Harmony Through Education
Drawing attention to the seminar’s theme, Dr. Singh reflected on the importance of social harmony. He raised a thought-provoking question: “Can social harmony be taught or preached? Or is it something to be realized through self-introspection and self-discipline?” His response emphasized the need for personal growth as the foundation for social peace.
He pointed out that when students study in an inclusive, flexible, and values-based environment, they are more likely to become citizens who value equality and mutual respect. “The first beneficiary of social harmony is the individual—it brings peace, purpose, and power,” he added.
Government Trust in Citizens
Dr. Singh also touched on other significant reforms introduced under Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s leadership, citing the replacement of gazetted officer attestation with self-attestation as a key symbolic move. According to him, this change signals the government’s trust in its people and reflects the broader transformation taking place in governance.
He also praised the removal of personal interviews for various government positions as a step toward ensuring merit-based recruitment and eliminating bias, which he said has made civil services more accessible to students from rural and underprivileged backgrounds.
Advocating for Entrepreneurship
In his address, Dr. Singh encouraged Indian parents to move away from the conventional obsession with government jobs and instead support their children in becoming entrepreneurs. Highlighting India’s dramatic rise in the startup ecosystem, he said, “We had only 300 startups in 2014; today, India is the third-largest startup ecosystem in the world.”
He warned against spending large sums on coaching institutes, suggesting that innovation, curiosity, and practical skills—now core components of NEP 2020—are far more valuable in today’s global economy.
Tribute to National Icons
In his concluding remarks, Dr. Singh paid homage to Dr. B.R. Ambedkar on his birth anniversary, describing him as a symbol of social harmony and intellectual leadership. He praised Dr. Ambedkar’s dedication to democratic values and the Indian Constitution, despite the adversities he faced.
He also reflected on his own experiences in Jammu & Kashmir, recalling times when nationalist ideals had to be defended under difficult circumstances, and underscored the importance of staying rooted in Indian values and traditions.
Conclusion
Dr. Jitendra Singh’s keynote at the “Social Harmony and Education” seminar brought into focus the transformative vision of NEP 2020. Describing it as a policy that brings together education, ethics, skill development, and equality, he reiterated the central message that true education goes beyond degrees—it must build character, foster unity, and equip individuals for meaningful lives.
With NEP 2020, India stands at a defining moment. If implemented effectively, this policy could reshape not just the education system, but the very fabric of society by fostering a skilled, ethical, and united citizenry ready to face the future.
