NCERT Director Prof. Dinesh Prasad Saklani detailed reforms to make India's school curriculum more skill-based and inclusive during the NDTV Education Conclave [1].
These changes aim to align the national education system with the "Viksit Bharat" vision, ensuring students remain globally competitive while staying rooted in local culture [2]. The shift reflects a broader move toward preparing students for future economic challenges through a redesigned approach to learning [1].
Saklani said to moderator Sikta Deo that the school curriculum is evolving, emphasizing a transition toward future-ready education [1]. He said that the foundation of global success begins with a strong understanding of one's own environment and language [2].
"You cannot become global while leaving local," Saklani said [2].
The director said that the current reforms prioritize a curriculum that is not only academic, but also focused on practical skills [1]. By integrating these elements, the NCERT intends to create a learning environment that supports both individual growth and national development [1].
Saklani said that preserving native languages is central to this educational evolution [2]. This approach is designed to prevent the loss of cultural identity as students strive for international standards of excellence [2].
The conversation at the conclave focused on the necessity of redesigning the Indian mind to adapt to a rapidly changing global landscape [1]. The goal is to foster a generation of learners who are versatile and capable of applying their knowledge in diverse real-world scenarios [1].
“"You cannot become global while leaving local."”
The emphasis on 'local' foundations within a 'global' framework suggests that India is attempting to decouple academic excellence from Westernization. By prioritizing native languages and skill-based learning, the NCERT is attempting to create a pragmatic education model that supports nationalistic goals (Viksit Bharat) while attempting to maintain economic relevance in a globalized labor market.
