Letters to The EDITOR

Whither Education?

It is utmost important for the nation to get a new education policy as it is beyond imagination that one gets 499 out of 500 marks, and the number of students getting more than 90% is huge. How do students end up scoring such high marks, especially in theoretical subjects? Is the marking system faulty? A committee person must examine and review this. Because of such high cut-offs, many bright students are unable to secure admission to decent colleges. It leads to stress among both students and parents. Will it not be better to go back to the older system of marking where there were very few first divisions?

In fact, India needs a practical approach to its educational system. Our schools need to do a lot more to develop students into individuals who have moral values and are caring. The school syllabus needs to be reduced, and an overdose of bookish knowledge must be avoided.

Outdoor field trips must be made compulsorily. At home, parents must monitor students and stipulate fixed hours for watching television, playing computer and mobile games, and surfing internet. A balance must be maintained between academics and extra-curricular activities and sports. Both teachers and parents must help children strike the right balance to enable their holistic development.

This apart, in schools, yoga and meditation should also be made compulsory for all students. This will help them make right decisions at appropriate times in their life.

Mahesh Kapasi,

Gumohar Park, Delhi.