Introduction:

Education plays a fundamental role in unlocking individual potential, fostering a fair and just society, and driving national progress. Ensuring universal access to high-quality education is essential for India's sustained growth and leadership on the global stage, particularly in areas such as economic development, social equity, scientific innovation, national unity, and cultural heritage preservation.

The global commitment to educational development is outlined in Sustainable Development Goal 4 (SDG 4) of the 2030 Agenda, which India adopted in 2015. This goal aims to "ensure inclusive and equitable quality education and promote lifelong learning opportunities for all" by 2030.

Main Body:

• Academic discussions in renowned universities, leading schools, and institutions managing large educational networks have consistently highlighted the challenges within India's education system.
• A notable concern is the trust deficit in government schools, a sentiment widely acknowledged by Indian families. Over time, societal attitudes toward education have shifted from questioning its necessity to demanding quality schooling for both boys and girls.
• The expansion of school education post-independence naturally led to a rise in higher education. However, the country faced a shortage of well-educated and skilled individuals, along with the constitutional obligation to provide free and compulsory education for children up to the age of 14.
• The effectiveness of higher education institutions, including their leadership, is directly linked to the quality of foundational education. India has inherited a legacy of distinguished scholars and researchers, who can serve as inspirations for young minds to pursue careers that contribute to society.
• Throughout history, visionary leaders have significantly shaped educational institutions. Many esteemed universities are remembered alongside the remarkable individuals who led them to prominence.
• For instance, Madan Mohan Malaviya, Syed Ahmed Khan, Rabindranath Tagore, and Zakir Husain played pivotal roles in establishing institutions such as Banaras Hindu University (BHU), Aligarh Muslim University (AMU), Visva-Bharati, and Jamia Millia Islamia.
• At the primary education level, schools should instill values such as discipline, respect for diligence, and the importance of time management while fostering a sense of responsibility toward nation-building.

Conclusion:

The National Education Policy (NEP) 2020 marks a significant step as the first education policy of the 21st century, aiming to address the country’s evolving developmental needs.

The Central Advisory Board on Education (CABE), chaired by the Union Education Minister, comprises state education ministers, academic experts, and key educational institutions nationwide. This body plays a crucial role in discussing and formulating policies related to education, including leadership development at all levels, from primary schools to higher education institutions.

Other Points to Consider

Right to Education (RTE)

Right to Information Act (RTI)