Day 19 – Q 1.Do you think it is important to look back in our own history and implement the lessons of the traditional ‘gurukula’ system of education to inculcate values in students? Critically comment.

1. Do you think it is important to look back in our own history and implement the lessons of the traditional ‘gurukula’ system of education to inculcate values in students? Critically comment. 

क्या आपको लगता है कि हमें अपने खुद के इतिहास में वापस देखना और छात्रों में मूल्यों को बढ़ाने के लिए शिक्षा के पारंपरिक गुरुकुल व्यवस्था की सीख को लागू करना  महत्वपूर्ण है? समालोचनात्मक टिप्पणी करें।

Introduction:

Education system in India has evolved with time and has seen many ups and downs. Education has been a mode of expressing oneself while promoting the spirit of thought and moral conscience. Yet present day education seems to have a lacking which is serious if not alarming.

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The importance of the Gurukul system in present times

The main focus of Gurukuls was on imparting learning to the students in a natural surrounding where the shisyas lived with each other with brotherhood, humanity, love, and discipline. The essential teachings were in subjects like language, science, mathematics through group discussions, self-learning etc. Not only this, but the focus was also given on arts, sports, crafts, singing that developed their intelligence and critical thinking. Activities such as yoga, meditation, mantra chanting etc generated positivity and peace of mind and made them fit. It was also mandatory to do daily chores on own with a motive to impart practical skills in them. All these helped in the personality development and increased their confidence, sense of discipline, intellect and mindfulness which is necessary even today to face the world that lay ahead.

Flaws in the present education system

Unfortunately, the above concept has disappeared and the modern system of education brought to India in the year 1835 by Lord Macaulay is all about rat race to be ahead of others. There is a total absence of personality development, creation of moral conscience and ethical training. One of the biggest flaws about this education is that it is more commercial in nature rather than an institutional concept that should impart holistic learning to the students. It devotes very less time for physical activity and the development of other skill sets that can assist a student to become a better human being.

 We need a Gurukul system back to Inculcate Values in Student

Many people may consider the gurukul system to be quite unstructured and a bizarre concept. The thought of living with a teacher, absence of a curriculum or a set routine can make people wonder how exactly a child will learn anything. However, the modern-day educationalist has taken a backward look and realized that there are many teaching approaches from the Gurukul system that can be inculcated in the present-day educational system. Here is a list to it that will also help us realize why the gurukul system in important.

• Modern infrastructure: Gurukul system is an important part of Indian history. Today, age-old concepts have merged with modern culture to facilitate a robust learning environment for students. Robust learning of the students can only take place when focus on given on practical knowledge. But alas our present-day education just believes in bookish knowledge and cramming which is not sufficient. The Gurukul system focused on applied knowledge that prepared the students in all fields of life. In present times it can be done by creating a perfect combination of academics and extracurricular activities along with teaching in the area of mindfulness and spiritual awareness to make the students better individuals.
• Holistic education for holistic growth: The present day education mainly focuses on a rank based system which is driven by animosity towards their peers. More fuel is added by the over-ambitious parents who judge the knowledge of students only by academic performance. The application of the Gurukul system instead can work on a value-based system where focus can be given on the uniqueness of child so that they can excel in their area of interest. This will also build a good character which is far away from fierce competition and increased stress levels that usually leads to depression.
• The relation between teacher and student: The need of present times is to ensure that teachers and students share a friendly relation and respect. This is as when the children feel secure and have trust in the caregiver then they are most likely to emulate the same. This was present in the Gurukul system which can be inculcated today through use of activities, training workshops to bond with the students.

Conclusion

The Gurukul system combines modern concept of education with traditional Indian values and the liberal methods to achieve it. We should progress with this vision to educate young minds and foster ethical, social, moral and spiritual values through holistic learning.