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Author: Smile Editorial Team

Categories
Nutrition

Focusing on the First 1000 Days of Nutrition

Focusing on the First 1000 Days of Nutrition
A healthy looking mother and her infant out and about

Nutrition plays a pivotal role in shaping the health and future productivity of individuals, and its significance in the first 1000 days of life cannot be overstated. From gestation to a child’s second birthday, nutrition lays the foundation for lifelong well-being.

Early nutrition significantly influences the health and cognitive potential of an individual. Poor nutrition during this critical period can lead to increased health risks, disabilities and decreased neurocognitive development in children. Additionally, maternal and childhood obesity can negatively impact neurodevelopment. The effects of early nutrition can be long-lasting and may even transcend generations, perpetuating the cycle of nutrition-related health issues.

Progress Over the Decades

In recent decades, global efforts have made remarkable strides in improving child nutrition, education, health, and survival. The stark contrast between historical and contemporary child survival rates is a testament to these efforts. In the 1800s, up to 50% of children did not survive to age 5, a figure that had dropped to 4% by 2017. However, the battle is far from won, with 15,000 children under 5 years of age still dying each day, half of these deaths attributed to malnutrition.

The Hidden Hunger

Micronutrient deficiencies, often referred to as “hidden hunger,” are a major contributor to morbidity and mortality in undernourished infants and young children. While wasting and stunting are more visible forms of malnutrition, hidden hunger poses its own set of challenges and can have significant long-term consequences.

Despite progress, challenges persist, and new threats are emerging, particularly in low- and middle-income countries. Stunting rates remain high, overweight and obesity are on the rise, and the associated non-communicable diseases will have far-reaching consequences in the years to come.

The Challenge and Opportunity

Meeting the challenge of providing adequate nutrition, addressing both under and overnutrition, may seem daunting given current environmental and socioeconomic obstacles. However, the first 1000 days also represent a tremendous opportunity. Investing in early nutrition yields lifelong benefits and is perhaps the most valuable investment society can make.

Pregnancy and the first two years of life are often referred to as the “first 1000 days.” This unique window of opportunity allows us to intervene and halt persistent malnutrition and the rising epidemic of non-communicable diseases. Efforts are needed to make healthy foods accessible and affordable to families and to empower parents and caregivers to shape their children’s dietary habits and overall development.

The Role of Education in Nutrition

Education in nutrition, especially for parents, is essential. The early years are a time of remarkable plasticity in humans, allowing us to program metabolic, immunologic, cognitive, behavioural and dietary patterns. To achieve this, educating parents and caregivers is crucial, as they are most eager to learn and apply knowledge to benefit their offspring.

Prioritising nutrition in the first 1000 days not only enhances individual health and well-being but also reduces disparities in health, education, and earning potential, and contributes to the gross domestic product (GDP) of a country. Breaking the intergenerational cycle of poverty becomes achievable through early nutrition interventions.

Investing in Early Life Nutrition

Long-term survival has always been a reason to prioritise infant nutrition. However, moral, ethical and scientific imperatives have reinforced the argument for investing in early-life nutrition. Economic returns on such investments are substantial and long-lasting, making it a sound choice for societies worldwide.

The economic argument for investing in the health and education of children is supported by high benefit-cost ratios. Early life nutrition investments are durable, inalienable and portable, benefiting individuals throughout their lives.

On the flip side, the cost of inaction in the realm of nutrition can be staggering. Inadequate nutrition has been linked to significant losses in GDP, primarily due to its impact on cognitive development. Without improvements in nutrition, world GDP would have been significantly lower.

While there is still limited data on the economic cost-benefit of obesity prevention in early childhood, estimates of obesity-related healthcare costs underscore the urgency of intervention. The costs associated with obesity, particularly in healthcare, can be substantial and need to be addressed.

Infant Nutrition as a Marker of Progress

Infant and child nutrition serves as a marker of societal progress. Disparities in nutrition between countries and income groups reflect the state of development and the speed of progress. Focusing on early-life nutrition is not only a moral imperative but also a reflection of society’s commitment to well-being.

The first 1000 days of nutrition are a critical period that shapes an individual’s lifelong health and potential. Investing in early-life nutrition is an opportunity to break the cycle of poverty, reduce disparities and enhance the well-being of individuals and societies. It is a sound economic choice with long-lasting benefits and it requires a collective effort from all stakeholders to ensure access to affordable, nutritious food and the dissemination of vital knowledge to parents and caregivers.

By prioritising early nutrition in our women empowerment programme, Swabhiman for pregnant and lactating women, we are trying to create a healthier, more prosperous world.

Swabhiman is dedicated to empowering marginalised and socially excluded women across India by focusing on three key areas: nutrition, healthcare and livelihood. Recognising the critical importance of nutrition during the first 1,000 days—from pregnancy through a child’s second birthday—the programme offers health education and services to women and adolescent girls through awareness campaigns, health camps and partnerships with local healthcare providers.

Categories
Women Empowerment

The Lockers Are Getting Pinker

The Lockers Are Getting Pinker
The Lockers Are Getting Pinker

According to data compiled by the Income Tax Department, the number of women who file income tax returns in India has increased by a whopping 25.3% over the past four years, from 1.83 crore in the 2019-20 assessment year to over 2.29 crore in the 2023-24 assessment year. 

Women are increasingly asserting their financial independence by dismantling traditional roles and rewriting societal norms. This transition is aiding women in achieving financial stability and safety. Access to resources and opportunities enables women to make autonomous financial decisions. Employment possibilities, access to finance and property rights have facilitated women’s financial independence.

The data indicate that Maharashtra recorded the highest number of women ITRs, while Gujarat ranked second in terms of growth. Uttar Pradesh secured the third position demonstrating a significant growth during the same period. Jammu & Kashmir and Mizoram, experienced a significant increase in the number of women submitting income tax returns from 2019-20 to 2023-24. Mizoram experienced a 96% rise reaching a total of 2,090, while Jammu and Kashmir saw a 49.2 percent growth, totalling 117,514.

Breaking Barriers for Financial Independence

Despite numerous challenges, women are successfully breaking the barriers. The increasing number of working women indicates that they possess a capacity to improve their lives. They possess significant influence over their career, profession and lifestyle choices, demonstrating a decreasing reliance on male authority.

The rapid expansion of technology-enabled opportunities is a significant trend that provides new avenues for women’s empowerment. The emergence of the internet and mobile technology has facilitated women’s access to education, information and markets. E-commerce platforms, online marketplaces and digital content creation have enabled women to establish their own businesses and access a broader audience. The growth of social entrepreneurship is an emerging trend that utilises business models to tackle social and environmental issues. Women are increasingly leading in social entrepreneurship, employing creative approaches to establish sustainable enterprises that support their communities.

The Indian government has acknowledged the significance of skill development for women and launched a variety of programmes and policies to encourage it. Vocational training and certification programmes are offered in a diverse array of sectors through initiatives like the Pradhan Mantri Kaushal Vikas Yojana (PMKVY) and the National Skill Development Mission (NSDM). The National Skill Development and Policy is dedicated to the development of inclusive skills with the goal of enhancing economic productivity by increasing the participation of women. 

Factors Driving Change

Economic Expansion
India’s rapid economic expansion has generated a variety of employment opportunities in both urban and rural regions. Women are increasingly entering diverse professional fields, including IT, finance, healthcare and manufacturing, which were traditionally male-dominated.

Access to Digital Resources
The rise of online platforms and mobile applications has enhanced the accessibility and user-friendliness of tax filing. Women in remote areas are now able to independently manage their finances and file returns, promoting financial accountability.

Support Systems
The emergence of remote work models, access to childcare services and mentorship programs designed for women professionals have facilitated the pursuit of careers while managing family responsibilities. These systems promote women’s engagement in the labour market.

Transforming Social Norms
Societal attitudes regarding working women and entrepreneurs are changing, reflecting greater acceptance and support from families and communities. This transition enables women to pursue lucrative careers or confidently initiate their own enterprises. 

Looking Forward

To continue this trend, some efforts that can be taken and reinforced include financial literacy programmes, supporting government and private sector activities and removing structural hurdles. Financial literacy programmes are vital for providing women with the knowledge and skills they need to handle their finances properly. These seminars can address topics such as budgeting, saving, investing and tax filing, allowing women to take control of their finances and make informed career and business decisions.

Initiatives like women-focused skill development programmes, mentorship opportunities and leadership training can assist close the gender gap in the workplace. The government and business sector can also offer incentives, such as grants or subsidies, to help women entrepreneurs succeed. Addressing systemic impediments such as salary inequality, limited financing availability and workplace discrimination is critical for attaining gender equity and encouraging women to pursue careers. Policies that guarantee equal pay for equal labour, give maternity benefits and allow for flexible work arrangements can foster a climate in which women can advance their careers without undue constraints.

Women must understand that occupations transcend gender; the key determinants are a person’s talents, knowledge, and dedication. Challenges are inherent in any career, but by leveraging resources, education, upskilling and learning from failures, women may reach new heights. 

Smile Foundation’s Swabhiman programme is all about empowering women from low-income communities. It focuses on providing better nutrition, healthcare and opportunities for earning a livelihood. By offering services like reproductive health support, nutrition programs, and training in entrepreneurship and digital financial skills, Swabhiman helps women become more aware, skilled and financially independent. This approach not only boosts their self-respect but also encourages them to seek necessary healthcare and drive positive changes in their communities. 

Similarly, Tayyari Kal Ki is designed to help young people, aged 18 to 32, by providing training and skills development to improve their job prospects. Through vocational training and capacity-building activities, the programme aims to make youth more employable and economically independent. This initiative addresses unemployment and contributes to community development by creating a skilled workforce ready to meet job market demands. 

Both programmes play a crucial role in enabling women to secure their own livelihoods, fostering economic independence and contributing to the creation of a gender-responsive society. By focusing on skill development, healthcare access and financial literacy, Swabhiman and Tayyari Kal Ki empower women and youth to overcome socio-economic challenges and build better futures for themselves and their communities. 

Categories
Health

The Precious Lives of Healthcare Workers

The Precious Lives of Healthcare Workers
The Precious Lives of Healthcare Workers

On the night of August 9, 2024, the sexual assault and murder of a junior doctor at RG Kar Medical College, sent shockwaves across the nation and abroad. Her tragic death ignited massive protests, uniting the healthcare community and the public in a powerful outcry for justice and safer workplaces. For days, healthcare workers (HWCs) and citizens marched with placards, their voices rising against the violence that has become disturbingly common in healthcare settings. 

While the outcry brought temporary attention to the issue, the root problem remains very deep. This incident is a grim reminder of the alarming reality of workplace safety for healthcare professionals in India. How safe are those who dedicate their lives to saving others? Let’s explore the current scenario, drawing evidence from recent surveys and real-life incidents to shed light on the pressing need for a secure and respectful work environment for healthcare workers.

Violence against Health Workers

The tragic case of the junior doctor is not an isolated incident. Health workers are at high risk of violence all over the world. Between 8% and 38% of health workers suffer physical violence at some point in their careers. Many more are threatened or exposed to verbal aggression. Surprisingly, most violence is perpetrated by patients and visitors.

Across India too, violence against healthcare workers has become disturbingly common. In April 2020, a team of health workers in Indore was attacked by a mob while trying to conduct COVID-19 screenings in a containment zone. In May 2023, a junior doctor named Vandana Das was stabbed to death while on night duty, by a patient brought to casualty for medical examination by the Police in a Government hospital of Kerala. The incident sparked widespread outrage and protests by doctors resulting in the Kerala Government passing an ordinance to provide stricter punishment for violence against hospitals and healthcare workers.

The public’s high expectations and the belief that all services should be free exacerbate the issue. Additionally, unrestricted public access within government hospitals, combined with inadequate security measures, surveillance and mob-prevention protocols, significantly heighten the risk of violence.

The situation has left many medical professionals feeling disillusioned, with a growing sense of being unsupported and unprotected in an environment where their safety is perpetually at risk. This widespread insecurity is prompting some to rethink their careers, further worsening the already severe shortage of healthcare workers in the country.

What do Surveys Say?

A cross-sectional survey conducted by experts from Vardhman Mahavir Medical College (VMMC), Safdarjung Hospital and AIIMS, New Delhi, revealed a startling truth—more than half (58.2%) of healthcare workers feel unsafe at their workplaces. The survey, published in the journal “Epidemiology International”, paints a grim picture of the working conditions faced by India’s medical professionals. Over 78% of respondents reported being threatened while on duty, and 81.3% had witnessed violence firsthand.

The study, involving 1,566 healthcare workers from diverse medical institutions across India, highlighted significant gaps in the security infrastructure. The majority of participants worked in government-run medical colleges, where dissatisfaction with security measures was the highest. State government institutions fared the worst, with over 63% of respondents expressing unhappiness about the number of security personnel.

Harrowing Gaps in Security Infrastructure

The survey unveiled glaring inadequacies in basic security measures across healthcare institutions. Nearly 70% of respondents criticized the lack of effective emergency alarm systems, while over 90% of institutions failed to implement proper screening for weapons or dangerous objects. High-risk areas such as intensive care units (ICUs) and psychiatric wards were found to be particularly vulnerable, with 62% of respondents pointing out severe gaps in access control and surveillance.

Adding to the distress, nearly half of the healthcare workers reported that duty rooms, meant to provide respite during long hours or night shifts, were grossly inadequate. This subpar infrastructure not only compromises the safety of healthcare providers but also adds to their mental and physical stress.

The survey revealed stark contrasts between private and public healthcare institutions. Private institutions, with better funding and resources, have managed to implement more effective security measures, leaving public sector workers to bear the brunt of systemic shortcomings. This disparity highlights the need for targeted interventions in government-run facilities, which serve the majority of India’s population.

Addressing the Issue

Between 2007 and 2019, India reported 153 cases of violence against HCWs, a figure likely underreported but alarmingly high for a non-conflict zone. The violence rate against HCWs in India is far more than the UK and China, both of which have legal safeguard. The Epidemic Diseases (Amendment) Act criminalised such violence in 2020, with punishment up to five years of imprisonment and fines of INR 2,00,000. However, they were not very effective. A 2019 Bill had proposed stricter penalties but was turned down by the Ministry of Home Affairs.

The VMMC-AIIMS survey emphasies some critical strategies to enhance workplace safety in healthcare. These include a strengthening of security by increasing personnel and improved surveillance systems. Duty room conditions should also be improved. There needs to be clear violence-handling protocols, including confidential reporting and staff awareness. Regular security training to prepare healthcare workers for emergencies and drafting stricter legal frameworks are necessary to reduce incidences of violence in healthcare settings.

The Bottom Line 

Ensuring a safe work environment for healthcare workers requires collective effort from institutions, policymakers and the community. Investing in security infrastructure, allocating adequate funds and enforcing legal protections for healthcare workers must become national priorities. The healthcare workforce is the backbone of any society and their safety is non-negotiable. The brutal case of Kolkata and countless others serve as a stark reminder of the challenges faced by India’s healthcare workers and a wake up call. It is time for us to take concrete steps to protect them. After all, the safety of those who save lives should never be in question.

Categories
Education

Budgeting Education Over the Years

School Improvement Programme
How CSR Partnerships are transforming Social Welfare in India?

After winning the national elections earlier this year, the newly re-elected Indian government presented the national budget for 2024-25 in July. The education sector—spanning both school and higher education—secured one of its most significant allocations in recent years, with total funding reaching approximately £12 billion, an increase of £1 billion compared to last year. However, despite this boost, the education budget accounts for only 2.5 percent of the country’s total national spending for the year.

Education is often regarded as the cornerstone of societal progress, yet its advancement depends heavily on how much nations are willing to invest in it. Over decades, education budgets have reflected competing priorities, political will and economic challenges. Globally, disparities in education funding reveal a startling truth: while some nations invest over 6% of their GDP in education, others struggle to allocate even a fraction of this. In India, the story has been equally complex. Despite constitutional guarantees and policy reforms, budgetary allocation for education remains a contentious issue. While there has been progress, the gap between the demand for quality education and the actual investment remains significant.

Post-Independence India and Budgetary Trends

When India gained independence in 1947, the literacy rate was a mere 12%. Education was recognised as a critical tool for nation-building, leading to the formation of the first Education Commission in 1948 under the Chairmanship of Dr. S Radhakrishnan. Subsequently, the Kothari Commission (1964-66) emphasized allocating 6% of the GDP to education: a benchmark that India is yet to achieve consistently. From 2015 to 2024, India allocated around 4.1 to 4.6 percent of its GDP to education, aligning with the international benchmarks set by the ‘Education 2030 Framework for Action,’ which advises countries to invest 4 to 6 percent of their GDP in education. 

Though India’s investment in education has met international benchmarks, countries like the USA, with nearly 6% of GDP dedicated to education, offer a stark contrast. Their investment translates into smaller class sizes, well-trained teachers and advanced learning environments. While developed nations have surged ahead, countries in Africa and South Asia, including India, are still battling with systemic barriers such as poverty, gender disparity and inadequate infrastructure leading to underinvestment in education. This is evident in overburdened public schools, poorly paid teachers and a lack of resources for marginalised communities. 

The Need and the Roadblocks

India’s budget for education has historically been viewed through a lens of economic constraints, but this view is changing slowly. Over the years, various initiatives, such as the Right to Education Act (RTE) in 2009, have improved access to education for children from economically weaker sections. However, quality still remains a critical issue. The budgetary focus needs to shift towards improving the quality of education, enhancing teacher training and upgrading infrastructure. 

One of the major challenges India faces is the imbalance between urban and rural educational infrastructure. While cities boast modern schools, colleges and universities, rural areas often struggle with a lack of basic facilities such as classrooms, teachers and digital infrastructure. The Ministry of Education reported that urban schools are notably better equipped with digital infrastructure, with 68.7% having internet connectivity compared to just 44.9% of rural schools. The evident contrast in the quality of education between urban and rural India calls for more equitable distribution of resources and investments.

Another challenge has been the allocation within the education sector. Higher education often receives a disproportionate share, leaving primary and secondary education underfunded. Additionally, vocational training and skill development, critical for India’s large youth population, remain inadequately resourced.

The Role of Private Players and Public-Private Partnerships

The rise of private institutions has significantly altered the education landscape in India. Today, nearly 43% of students in urban areas attend private schools, compared to just 16% in rural regions. While private players have bridged gaps in access and quality, they have also exacerbated inequities. High fees make quality education inaccessible to many, pushing marginalised communities further behind.

Public-private partnerships (PPPs) have emerged as a potential solution to this dilemma. Globally, countries like the United States have successfully integrated PPPs to modernise school infrastructure and introduce innovative teaching methodologies. However, such models require robust regulation to ensure equity and accountability—areas where India still has room for improvement.

Lessons for India From Around the World 

Globally, nations that prioritise education in their budgets often reap substantial dividends. For instance, Norway, one of the leading countries in education, spends nearly 7% of its GDP on education, resulting in a highly efficient and equitable system. The Norwegian government’s budgetary commitment is reflected in their 100% literacy rate, a feat that India is still working towards.

For India, the contrast with China is particularly instructive. Over the years, China has consistently allocated over 4% of its GDP to education, emphasizing skill development and research. This focus has propelled China to the forefront of global innovation. India’s lower investment in education, coupled with a brain drain, limits its ability to compete on a global scale.

Nevertheless, India’s greatest strength lies in its young population brimming with potential, giving us reasons to stay hopeful. By increasing education budgets and addressing systemic inefficiencies, India can harness this potential to drive economic and social transformation.

The Road Ahead

The future of education funding in India depends on bold policy decisions and sustained political will. Increasing the GDP allocation to 6% remains a critical goal, but the distribution of resources also matters. Investments must prioritise primary and secondary education, digital infrastructure and teacher training. In the digital era, integrating technology into classrooms can enhance learning outcomes and bridge geographic divides.

Global experiences offer valuable lessons. Countries that prioritise education view it not merely as an expenditure but as an investment in human capital. For India, this perspective could catalyse transformative change. Programmes like the New Education Policy (NEP) 2020, which envisions a holistic and flexible education system do provide a roadmap. However, their success hinges on adequate funding and effective implementation.

Education holds the key to breaking the cycle of poverty, yet systemic inequities and underfunding hinder progress, particularly for marginalised communities in India. Smile Foundation’s education initiatives aim to complement government efforts by bridging these gaps, with a focus on providing quality learning experiences to underserved children and youth.  

By addressing challenges such as insufficient infrastructure, lack of trained teachers and rural-urban disparities, Smile Foundation works to ensure that no child is left behind. Through programmes designed to make learning accessible and equitable, the Foundation emphasises holistic development, building on models that integrate public-private partnerships, teacher training and digital resources. These initiatives reflect Smile’s vision to transform India’s vast young population into a skilled and educated force for national development.  

With an approach rooted in action and inclusivity, Smile Foundation continues to illuminate pathways to progress for the communities that need it most.

Categories
Livelihood

Ready for the Workforce

Ready for the Workforce
Ready for the Workforce

The World Bank has emphasised that, in addition to education and workforce preparation, it is critical to identify the important sectors where jobs are available, as well as the geographical locations where these essential sectors exist. Furthermore, it is critical to identify the roles with high employment potential. It provides a range of skills that could be taught in schools, as well as how they should be tailored to a specific location based on the local economy. 

India must coordinate an effort to reinvent itself and develop vocational skills, as well as align education and training with the employment market, in order to capitalise on its demographic advantage and achieve its $5-trillion economic objective.

Why prepare Students for the Workforce?

In India, there is a substantial discrepancy between the knowledge that individuals have and the expertise that is required by the industry. Regrettably, this discrepancy frequently prevents numerous individuals from making the appropriate choice of career, as the skills and expertise that are imparted in schools and colleges do not correspond with the requirements of the actual world. 

The evolving technical innovations and the evolving professional landscapes highlights a critical need to upskill students to make them ready for the workforce. Upskilling means soft and technical skills. Soft skills, including ability to adapt, emotional intelligence and critical thinking, are indispensable components of professional growth. These abilities allow individuals to effectively collaborate, navigate intricate work environments and adjust to ongoing changes and obstacles. It is increasingly being acknowledged that, although technical skills can be taught, interpersonal skills are more challenging to develop but are essential for long-term success.

Reducing wrong career decisions benefits both organisations and the economy. Job satisfaction is likely to be low when people are placed in jobs that do not match their abilities or interests, which can lead to increased employee turnover and decreased worker efficiency. Businesses may suffer unfavourable consequences as a result of this talent and resource depletion. A mismatched workforce can stifle economic growth and advancement.

How To Better Prepare Students For Tomorrow’s Job Market

Agriculture, manufacturing and the service sector in India provide opportunities that vary depending on the city and town. Horticulture, fisheries and farm productivity are all potential areas of agriculture. Customised curriculum improvements in entrepreneurship and agronomy can enable students to explore self-employment opportunities and increase their incomes. Small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) and large corporations prioritise certified personnel who possess a variety of skills. The curriculum of schools should be in accordance with the requirements of the industrial sector, with a focus on technical knowledge and hands-on training in sectors such as automotive and food processing. The necessity for multi-skill training is underscored by the demand for employability skills in retail, IT and finance, which guarantees that students are proficient in tech-driven and customer-facing positions.

Continuous Upskilling

The importance of continuous upskilling of students should be emphasised based on the current job market’s changing trends, changes in technology and other skills relevant to the sector they choose to work.

Real-world Problem-solving Initiatives

To better equip students for the future workplace, incorporate real-world problem-solving initiatives into the curriculum. By working with businesses to resolve their current issues, students acquire practical experience, cultivate critical thinking and adjust to industry requirements.

Establish a Connection between Students, NGOs and Local Businesses

This connection can facilitate experiential learning. The ability to adapt and interpersonal skills of students can be improved by involving them in internships, community service and other experiential learning opportunities. Directly incorporate real-world problem-solving initiatives into the curriculum. Not only would these initiatives offer practical experience, but they would also cultivate critical thinking, collaboration and adaptability—skills that are highly desired in the contemporary job market.

Mentorship Programmes

Mentorship programmes that involve the pairing of students with industry leaders should be done. This practical connection can assist students in comprehending the changing demands of the industry, cultivating essential soft skills and establishing professional connections. This form of mentorship prepares students for the transition into the future workforce.

Integrate Soft Skills into Existing Structures

Enhance the educational experience by integrating soft skills into existing structures. For instance, the implementation of project-based learning can cultivate leadership, collaboration, and problem-solving abilities. Working on real-world initiatives enables students to develop the ability to communicate their ideas, collaborate effectively and navigate challenges. Having open discussions and debates in the classroom is beneficial for the development of emotional intelligence and critical thinking.

Understand the District and Customise Programmes for Students

Customise skill training based on the opportunities in the particular district linked to the local economy. Undertake a thorough understanding of the place and the various sectors present there, the economic opportunities offered, employment potential and skill requirements, to implement an effective upskilling programme for students.

The World Economic Forum’s Future of Jobs Report predicts that by 2025, 50% of all employees will require reskilling due to the increasing adoption of technology. Creating a generation of skilled professionals who will drive India’s economic development and innovation is achievable by integrating vocational education with practical industry requirements. Smile Foundation, recognising the urgent need to address poverty and unemployment, has restructured its employability training initiative, ‘STeP.’ Our campaign, ‘Tayyari Kal Ki,’ focuses on training and upskilling youth aged 18 to 32 years to prepare them for employment opportunities and empower them with secure livelihoods.

This initiative bridges the gap between education and employment by offering practical training aligned with industry demands. From communication and digital skills to professional readiness and soft skills, Tayyari Kal Ki addresses the unique needs of the Indian job market. With a focus on marginalised communities, the programme emphasises gender equity and ensures that women, in particular, have equal access to opportunities.

By empowering youth with the tools to succeed, Smile Foundation is building resilient communities where individuals can thrive and contribute to the nation’s economic and social fabric.

Categories
Smile

Infusing Funds into Grassroots Organisations

Infusing Funds into Grassroots Organisations
Infusing Funds into Grassroots Organisations

Funding grassroots organisations is one of the most effective methods for bringing about substantial change and envisioning a more equal society for all. Initiatives that are community-based and designed to resolve localised issues are known as grassroots initiatives. Projects that are supported by local organisations can rapidly accumulate momentum at the local level due to the fact that they are typically staffed with local actors. Furthermore, local grassroots initiatives that are directly and closely connected  to the communities and their issues, which gives them an advantage of building trust. Infusing funds into grassroots organisations is advantageous because they can serve as the primary point of contact with the community and the issue at hand, thereby enabling effective interventions and a significant impact. They are adept at identifying the issues and potential solutions that could facilitate the implementation of a sustainable solution.

It is critical that grassroot organisations advance by with the help of adequate funding, various financial donors support them by fostering financial diversity during the fundraising process. This may encompass a variety of financial support, like government grants, corporate partnerships and individual donors. Furthermore, it is also imperative devise a stable funding strategy. 

The Challenges Faced by Grassroots Organisations

Limited access

Grassroots organisations often have limited access to funding resources and networks, and lack ways to reach large donors or international funding agencies. They are left with local sources that are often not adequate and irregular

Lack of visibility and resources

They are also unable to effectively attract donors or emphasise the impact of their work due to a dearth of knowledge and resources to invest in marketing or advocacy. Moreover, they often get overshadowed by established NGOs, making it harder for them  to secure crucial funds.

Bureaucratic and administrative roadblocks

The application process for grants or governmental support is frequently complicated, and grassroots organisations with limited administrative capacity and knowledge find it difficult to navigate.

Why Fund Grassroots Organisations?

Grassroots organisations operate at the heart of communities, understanding local challenges and designing solutions that align closely with the cultural, economic and social fabric of the area. In contrast to generalised initiatives, grassroots organisations develop interventions that are customised to the specific requirements of the community, thereby guaranteeing their long-term relevance and effectiveness. The root causes and fundamental forces at the core of the problem are frequently best understood and addressed by grassroots organisations. 

These organisations often serve vulnerable populations, amplifying the voices of those who are frequently excluded from mainstream development efforts. Funding grassroots initiatives nurtures local leadership and fosters community-driven development, reducing dependency on external aid over time.

Grassroots organisations have fewer costs of operation than established NGOs that have to figure out several expenses to operate and implement work in the community. They frequently incur the costs of lodging, travel, employing consultants and more expenses. This is due to their integration into their communities.

In the long term, the infusion of funds into grassroot organisations has the potential to transform the future of underserved communities. By employing appropriate project management, interventions and monitoring and implementation processes, we are establishing a community that will eventually become self-sufficient and aware, thereby empowering them to independently resolve issues.

How Can We Fund?

It is essential to concentrate on the development of long-term, dedicated support and relationships to ensure that groups possess the necessary resources and networks to remain resilient after the granting period. This can be done in the following ways:

Reducing the administrative burden

Reducing the administrative burden on groups that are already overextended by imposing minimal reporting and application requirements.

Partnership with bigger NGOs

Access to resources, technical expertise and broader donor networks can be provided to grassroots organisations through partnerships with established NGOs. This can cultivate an advantageous partnership that enhances their outreach efforts and capabilities.

Employing latest strategies of funding

Modern strategies, such as targeted social media campaigns, micro-donations and crowdfunding, enable grassroots organisations to directly engage with individuals worldwide, thereby ensuring that smaller contributions collectively have a substantial impact and increase visibility.

Seeking and encouraging CSR funds

Encouraging corporations to focus CSR funds on grassroots causes aligns their social impact goals with community development, offering reliable funding sources and fostering meaningful, long-term partnerships with local organisations.

Help in identifying relevant government schemes

Grassroot organisations should be assisted in the identification and utilisation of state and central funding programmes that can provide them with the necessary resources for community-focused projects. Additionally, it is imperative to assist them in navigating the procedures required to obtain those funds. 

Capacity building

For organisations with limited knowledge of these systems, it can be exceedingly challenging to understand and navigate the documentation necessary to obtain these funds. Equipping grassroots organisations with skills like grant writing, financial management and donor communication enhances their ability to secure funds, ensuring long-term sustainability and professional growth within their operations.

Grassroots organisations have a more prominent role in the social sector ecology. They add depth to projects. When we fund these organisations adequately, we may see results that are profound. 

How are we Empowering Grassroots?

Smile Foundation’s Empowering Grassroots training programme, in partnership with CtGA, strengthens community-based organisations (CBOs) working in education, healthcare, women empowerment and skills development. The training focuses on essential skills such as programme management, leadership, local fundraising and mobilising support through a compassionate lens. Sessions explore key themes like ‘Top Down vs. Bottom Up’ approaches, fostering community participation and implementing sustainable initiatives to drive impactful change.

By equipping CBOs with knowledge and tools to lead, manage resources and mobilise support, Empowering Grassroots is enabling them to address local challenges more effectively. The programme reflects Smile Foundation’s commitment to building leadership at the community level, creating a positive impact that improves lives for generations to come.

Categories
Education

One Nation One Subscription Scheme Helping India

Emotionally Safe Classrooms for First-Generation Learners

Prime Minister Narendra Modi announced the One Nation One Subscription scheme in his recent address in order to bring about a much-needed change in the academic research and education landscape of India. The Prime Minister emphasised that the scheme or initiative will provide students and researchers with seamless access to a variety of journals and research publications. This move is expected to significantly enhance the quality of education and research in the country, bridging gaps and fostering innovation.

What is the One Nation One Subscription Scheme?

To many, who do not work in the academic research field, this may be a unique concept. Why do researchers need subscription and to what? To explain it simply, any researcher who is conducting a research in the area of their interest needs to refer to a lot of existing knowledge in the same area. This knowledge can be accessed through the already published books, journals, research articles, etc. By having access to the existing knowledge, the research can find gaps that exist currently and fill those gaps through their research.

The One Nation One Subscription scheme ensures that students, researchers and educational institutions across India have access to a vast repository of academic journals, research papers and other scholarly publications. The idea is to centralise the subscriptions at a national level and remove any disparities that may exist across universities and educational institutions, ensuring that all the researchers in India have equal access to the existing literature.

Talking about the scheme, Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan said that the One Nation One Subscription scheme will democratise access to knowledge, making high-quality research materials available to every student and researcher, irrespective of their institutional affiliations or financial constraints.

Understanding Academic Research and Needs

As mentioned above, academic researchers depend on a range of databases, academic journals and publications to stay updated with the latest developments in their fields. They use it to validate their hypotheses and build upon existing knowledge. When the researchers have access to high-quality academic subscriptions, it increases their knowledge pool which means that the research that they conduct is rigorous and impactful.

In various universities across India, researchers face many challenges in getting this access because of the limited budgets and small number of subscriptions available to them through their institutes. Also, the researchers cannot individually subscribe to these publications because of their high cost. This lack of access can hinder the research process, leading to gaps in knowledge and innovation. The One Nation One Subscription scheme addresses this critical issue by providing comprehensive access to a wide range of academic resources, ensuring that researchers have the tools they need to excel.

The Research Landscape in India

India has always been a leading player in academic research globally irrespective of subjects and areas of research. There are some premiere institutes in the country like the IITs that support good quality research. According to Scimago Journal and Country Rank, India stands at number sixth globally, contributing a lot to the overall academic research in the world. The quality and impact of research conducted in India have also seen notable improvements, with Indian researchers contributing to significant advancements in various disciplines.

Apart from this, India also boasts of one of the biggest educational infrastructures in the world with more than thousand universities across the country. Lakhs of researchers rigorously undertake their academic work in the country at any given time, contributing to the advancements and progress in knowledge in various areas and fields. Institutes like IITs, IISc and AIIMS have received recognition in the past for some of the crucial research done by students in these institutes. Therefore, it is crucial that more and more universities and colleges in India get similar access to knowledge and produce better results in the future.

Impact of the One Nation One Subscription Scheme

In this regard, the One Nation One Subscription scheme can have a huge impact. Here are some of the expected benefits:

  1. Enhanced research quality: As mentioned above, access to a larger knowledge pool means better and more rigorous research. This helps in improving the overall quality of research happening in India. 
  2. Promoting collaboration: As a researcher, learning about the good work happening in the same area of your research opens up many doors. The researcher can reach out to others who have done quality work in the past and collaborate with them. It can also open up opportunities for collaboration between different universities within India and across the globe. At the same time, it can also help in fostering a multidisciplinary research environment in the country.
  3. Reduced inequality: One of the biggest challenges today is that few of the premiere institutes have enough funds to subscribe to best quality publications while the researchers in smaller institutions across the country may not have the same access. Therefore, this scheme aims to remove this inequality by creating a centralised structure.
  4. Innovation: As it can be understood, more knowledge can allow the researchers to think with more perspectives and come up with new ideas. Therefore, this can also help in boosting innovation in research.

Improvements Needs to the Scheme

While the scheme is being lauded because of the problems it solves, there are still some criticisms that need to be addressed. For instance, some experts have raised concerns about the sustainability and funding of the scheme. “While the scheme is a positive step towards democratizing access to knowledge, it is crucial to ensure that it is financially sustainable in the long run and that the quality of resources is maintained,” said noted educationist Dr Arvind Gupta in one of his interactions with the media after the scheme was announced.

Additionally, suggestions have been made that not only subscription-based but open-access publications should also be organised in a central database to make the overall access smooth and easy.

Conclusion

The One Nation One Subscription scheme represents an important step towards improving the education and research landscape in India. By providing universal access to academic resources, the scheme will empower researchers and students, foster innovation and promote a more inclusive and equitable research environment. As India continues to invest in education and research, initiatives like this will play a crucial role in positioning the country as a global leader in academic research and innovation.

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Girl Child Women Empowerment

What do we Understand by Gender-budgeting Initiatives?

How Women Empowerment Reduces Gender-Based Violence
How Women Empowerment Reduces Gender-Based Violence

In July this year, the union finance minister, Nirmala Sitharaman, allocated a sum of Rs 3.2 lakh crore towards schemes aimed at women beneficiaries as a part of gender-budgeting initiatives. The government’s allocation for gender-responsive budgeting has gone up by 37.33% from the previous financial year. The fund is said to have touched the peak ever since it was launched a couple of decades ago. Before we delve into the topic, let’s understand what gender-responsive budgeting actually means. 

Understanding Gender-responsive Budgeting

Gender-responsive budgeting is a type of budget plan that aims to allocate resources by considering the needs of all genders. It requires analysing budgets to identify gender gaps well before creating schemes and policies to address those gaps. To address the gender gaps, governments need to understand the specific requirements of men, women and other genders and allocate specific budgets for them in each of their projects. This type of budget strives for a fair distribution of resources by applying a gender lens to the entire policy process. It thereby aims to work well for each of its citizens.

The existing budgets and economic models often pave the path for fiscal policies and they are biased. For they do not take into consideration the specific requirements of women. This often ends up having a huge gender gap within it and has unintended negative consequences. So when gender gaps are identified, available resources can be used to address the gender inequalities and ensure sustainable and inclusive development for all.

Meanwhile, goal 5 of the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (UN-SDGs) is to achieve gender equality and empower all women and girls. The goal focuses on ending violence, discrimination, and harmful practices against women and girls. It also focuses on ensuring women’s full participation in political, economic, and public life. The deadline set for countries to meet the goals is 2030.

According to UN Women, more than 100 countries have taken steps to implement gender-responsive budgeting to address the historical underinvestment in essential services for women and girls. “Data from 105 countries shows that only 26% have comprehensive systems to track gender equality allocations in the budget. However, data also shows that a majority of countries have made some progress on gender-responsive budgeting and are working to improve their systems despite the prevailing gaps in gender equality spending,” it says.

Implementing gender-responsive budgets requires robust institutional frameworks, political will, laws and a whole-government approach to encourage and implement equal distribution of resources, to collect reliable data required to understand the diverse needs of people, to collaborate with private sectors and civil societies and to have monitoring and evaluation systems to estimate future budget adjustments.

Importance of Gender-responsive Budgeting

Gender-responsive budgeting has become essential in recent times. For it ensures that the government puts on the gender lens while drafting policies and making financial allocations to address the specific needs of all genders. Below are some of the key reasons why a gender-responsive budget is extremely important.

  1. Promotes gender equality: A gender-responsive budget makes sure that the government allocates funds to schemes and projects that address the unique needs of women and others. Its primary objective is to increase women’s access to resources like education, healthcare and employment opportunities by removing barriers that perpetuate gender inequalities.
  2. Incorporates women’s perspective in policy making: A strong political will and a robust institutional framework are the most required to make a gender-responsive budget in a country. Before tabling the budget, it is crucial to analyse and understand the requirements of women and other genders. Until recently, all the schemes and budgets were solely proposed and implemented by men with a few or no women on the team. While analysing the requirements of women, the perspective of non-men comes to the discussion on the table. It, thereby, gives a unique perspective even to the existing policies.
  3. Enhances economic growth and development: By ensuring that all members of society, regardless of gender, have equal opportunities to contribute to and benefit from economic progress, gender-responsive budgeting fosters broader economic growth. For instance, by investing in education and skill-development programmes for women, it contributes to a more educated and skilled workforce. When women gain equal access to quality education, they are more likely to enter the workforce and contribute productively to the economy. A key component of gender-responsive budgeting is ensuring women’s participation in the labor market by removing barriers such as wage discrimination, lack of child care facilities and unequal access to training and career advancement. Increased participation of women in the workforce boosts national economic productivity.

India and its Gender-budgeting Initiatives

The Indian government introduced a gender-responsive budget in 2005-06. Its main objective is to ensure that government budgets address the requirements of women and girls. Since then the union government has been putting on a gender lens at all stages of policy-making. The union ministry of women and child development implements gender budgeting at the national level, while the women and child development department, social welfare and finance departments act as its nodal agencies in states and union territories.

The government has been publishing a gender budget statement every year along with its budget. The budget statement presents gender-specific allocation for women. The statement breaks down expenditure into three categories. The first part deals with the allocation of funds made specifically for women-centric schemes (all beneficiaries are women). The other two parts deal with allocations of funds for schemes that benefit both men and women (part B has schemes that have about 30-99% of beneficiaries as women and part A has schemes that have up to 30% of their beneficiaries as women).

Ever since its implementation, the government has been allocating an average of 5% of the total budgetary allocation as gender budgeting. Some of the schemes that receive funds under gender budgeting are affordable housing, access to water supply and the Mahatma Gandhi National Rural Employment Guarantee Act (MGNREGA). 

The government has advanced the cause of gender-responsive budgeting by making the highest financial allocation as part of the gender budget statement in the financial year 2024-25. It has allocated a sum of Rs 3.2 lakh crore. This is about 1% of its Gross Domestic Product (GDP) and around 6.8% of the total expenditure budget.

According to the latest annual report published by the Union Women and Child Development Ministry, it aims to achieve 100% coverage of gender budgeting in all union ministries and departments, states and union territories as a part of its Mission Shakti for the empowerment of women. Its focus is on strengthening institutional mechanisms and processes to undertake gender budgeting at the union and state levels, developing internal and external capacities and building expertise across sectors to integrate the gender perspective in planning, budgeting and auditing.

Conclusion

It is indeed a positive sign that India is moving towards a gender-responsive budget to address gender disparities. But it continues as an evolving process and the country still has a long way to go to address the issues. Recently, the United Nations has lauded the Indian government for its gender budgeting initiatives. At the same time, it has also pointed out that India lacks sex-disaggregated data and continues to exclude key programmes that benefit women. Ensuring that the budget remains true to its name requires continuous monitoring, a deeper understanding of gender issues and active participation from women in all stages of planning and implementation. A more inclusive approach that addresses the intersectional aspects of gender will strengthen the impact of these policies.

Smile Foundation’s women empowerment programme, Swabhiman embodies the principles of gender-responsive budgeting by ensuring resources and opportunities reach those who need them most. Through targeted initiatives in entrepreneurship and healthcare, the programme addresses systemic gaps and empowers women and girls to lead independent, fulfilling lives.

With a strong focus on grassroots involvement, Smile’s efforts not only enhance access to essential services but also support economic independence and community leadership among women. By working hand-in-hand with local communities, the programme amplifies the voices of women, ensuring their needs and perspectives shape sustainable solutions for India and the world.

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Education

Investment in Education, but is it Enough India? 

Investment in Education, but is it Enough India? 
Investment in Education, but is it Enough India? 

In India, learning and education are highly valued. However, across the country, educational institutions are understaffed, don’t have sufficient infrastructure, there is a shortage of teachers and existing personnel don’t have opportunities to upskill themselves. Is there a shortage of resources? Is India investing enough in education?

India’s Investment in Education meets International Benchmarks

In terms of GDP percentage and government expenditure, India has been investing more than other Central and Southern Asian countries, says a report in The Times of India. This is in contrast with the global trend of declining average investment in education.

Between 2015 and 2024, India allocated approximately 4.1% to 4.6% of its GDP to education, aligning with international benchmarks set by ‘Education 2030 Framework of Action’, which recommends that countries allocate 4% to 6% of their GDP to education, says the report.

A series of reports from the UNESCO Institute of Statistics on world education shows that India’s government expenditure on education fluctuated between 13.5% and 17.2% during the same period. This aligns with the Education 2030 target that encourages governments to allocate 15% to 20% of their public expenditure to education.

However, experts feel that this can be upped. “If you look at the manifestoes of all political parties for the last four general elections, all of them have said that they will invest 6% GDP in education but no one has done it till date,” says John Roberts, director, southern region, CRY.

Why India Needs to Invest in Education

“In India, many schools are still grappling with a shortage of teachers. Many others do not have the basic infrastructure, even a roof overhead. Some state governments do not have the budget to print enough textbooks,” says Merlia Shaukath, founder-CEO of Madhi Foundation, adding that education is also about the well-being of children in schools. “Tamil Nadu, for instance, has done well with the mid-day meal system. It has to be implemented in schools across the country as a child can’t learn on an empty stomach. So investing in nutrition is investing in education.”

How does Investing in Education Benefit the Country?

Investing in education is crucial for the country’s development as education lays the foundation for sustainable growth, social equity and global competitiveness. An educated population is essential for:

Building a skilled workforce: As India transitions towards a more knowledge-based economy, there is an increasing demand for skilled professionals in sectors such as technology, healthcare, finance and engineering. Investing in education ensures that there are enough people equipped with necessary skills and knowledge who are ready to join the workforce. 

Investment in education also helps India build a skilled workforce that can compete in the global marketplace, especially in emerging fields such as artificial intelligence, biotechnology and renewable energy. Higher levels of education also promote research, innovation and technological advancements. 

Breaking the cycle of poverty, social impact: Access to quality education also means more employment opportunities, which is linked to higher income levels. This helps break the cycle of poverty by providing people from disadvantaged backgrounds with opportunities for upward mobility. Educating girls and women also has a great impact on social and economic outcomes — reducing instances of child marriage, improving maternal health and increasing women’s participation in the workforce — all of which gives a boost to the country’s growth.

Improved Public Health: Educated people are more equipped to understand health-related issues, adopt healthier lifestyles and make informed decisions about nutrition, sanitation and healthcare. That’s why investment in education can contribute to improved public health outcomes, which in turn reduces the burden on the healthcare system.

Stronger Democracy: Well-educated people are more likely to participate in democratic processes such as voting and community decision-making. This helps strengthen democracy and good governance.

Promotes sustainable behaviour: In today’s world, we are struggling to combat environmental challenges such as climate change, deforestation and pollution. Education can raise awareness about these issues and foster more sustainable behaviours. Educated people are more likely to adopt environmentally friendly practices and support sustainable policies.

Helps bridge digital divide: It is essential for the country to invest in education that equips students with digital literacy and technological skills. This will help bridge the digital divide, ensuring that all citizens, regardless of their socio-economic background, have access to the opportunities created by the digital economy.

Leads to technological innovations: Investment in STEM (science, technology, engineering and mathematics) education is critical for preparing students for future job markets. Education helps drive technological innovation, which can enhance productivity, improve lives and create new industries.

Human development: A well-educated population is more resilient and adapts better to economic shocks, social change and global challenges. Education also helps cultivate leadership skills and critical thinking abilities, which are essential for fostering a new generation of leaders in all sectors.

Union Budget prioritises Investment in Education

The Union Budget 2024-25, presented by Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman in the Lok Sabha, allocated ₹1.48 lakh crore for education, employment and skilling in India. The government will provide financial support for loans up to ₹10 lakh for higher education in domestic institutions. It will upgrade 1,000 Industrial Training Institutes (ITIs) using a hub-and-spoke model, aligning course content with industry skill needs, and revising the model skill loan scheme. An internship scheme will be launched to provide opportunities for 1 crore youths in over 500 firms and 20 lakh youth will be skilled over the next five years.

Roadblocks that Need to be Addressed

“There is a fundamental problem of education being underfunded, which is evidenced by how understaffed our schools are and how little resources they have. For the longest time, recommendations have been made for education budget to be increased to 6% GDP,” says Merlia Shaukath.

The funds that are being sanctioned are also underutilised, she says. “The states have to submit a budget to the Project Approval Board (PAB). The meetings happen in February or March. By the time it is approved and reaches the state, it is almost the end of the financial year. This means funds are both unutilised and underutilised,” says Merlia, adding that this ineffective cycle puts a lot of pressure on the state governments. “They have prepared the education department to start implementation of various projects but can’t do it without money in hand. So they have to look for back-up options in the state government’s budget.”

About 98% of the state budget goes towards salary and administrative expenses, which leaves state governments with very little money to sanction innovative or quality programmes, says Merlia. 

Possible Solutions

Merlia feels that the delayed disbursement of funds needs to be seen as a major problem and someone has to care enough for the cycle to be expedited. “Maybe PAB meetings can be held for three years so that even if there is a delay in disbursement, it doesn’t affect programme implementation too much as it’s been disbursed for three years.”

She also feels that recommending a global blanket of 4.6% GDP to be invested in education is misguided. “We have to see what it means in our context, what is the per child cost, and what that covers (books, meals, uniform) needs to be standardised. And then we have to see what percentage of GDP it comes to,” says Merlia.

What NGOs are Doing for Investment in Education

Several NGOs in the field are working to ensure that all children have access to education, offering scholarships, improving infrastructure of educational institutions and combating teacher shortage.

“CRY launched a campaign about seven months ago, called ‘Poori Padhai Desh Ki Bhalai. We want to ensure that all children complete at least class 12,” says Roberts, adding that the nation will prosper when children are educated. “Some time ago we did a study, which said that if all girl children complete class 12, then there is a potential of adding USD 770 billion to India’s economy. As per government data only 58% girls have completed class 12.”

Smile Foundation’s education interventions are focused on helping children from difficult circumstances to have access to equal opportunities for school completion and equitable learning outcomes. Our programmes are aligned to the National Education Policy and aim to support the efforts of government to enhance accessibility of quality education for all children.

We operate six active scholarship projects in collaboration with donors such as Deutsche Bank, Quantiphi, Quest Global, Siemens and more. These projects collectively benefit over 2,000 students. A retention strategy is also in place, including the regular review of academic performance, counselling services and mentoring. 

The Foundation also gives students industry exposure by helping them visit the sites, offices and different departments of potential employers based on their interests, education and industry needs.

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Education

Education Cannot Only Be About Employability

Education Cannot Only Be About Employability
Education Cannot Only Be About Employability

“Education is not the filling of a pail, but the lighting of a fire.” This quote by WB Yeats beautifully summarises what education’s purpose is. It is not supposed to perform a limited function of giving knowledge to a person in order to make them employable; it is about lighting a fire within them and setting them on a path of growth and self-discovery. It is not just about getting education for the sake of employment; it is about igniting curiosity, nurturing character and encouraging a lifelong love for learning.

When you enter a government-run school in India, especially in the semi-urban and rural parts of the country, you will find a beautiful saying on its gate. On one side of the gate is written ‘enter for knowledge’ and on the other side – ‘leave for service’. This encapsulates the purpose of education. You gain knowledge so that you can serve the society, not just for your own benefit. It is about building individuals who are not only employable but are also responsible, empathetic and active participants in society.

How Education Shapes an Individual’s Future

First of all, it equips everyone to navigate the complexities of the modern world. Education prepares us to survive and thrive in the world. It helps us be ready to take on the challenges that come our way. Beyond that, education helps individuals develop critical thinking, problem-solving, and decision-making skills. It also fosters creativity, innovation and adaptability, which are essential in an ever-changing global landscape.

We live in a global world today, with everyone connected with each other, and with easy access to different cultures and ideas. This also makes our world complex as it means everyone has to adapt with the constantly evolving social constructs. Through education, an individual learns to be a part of this global community. It doesn’t matter where we are born and what are the underlying beliefs that are ingrained in our smaller communities; education allows us to know about the great arc of history and understanding the world beyond our limited lenses.

Education helps individuals to gain knowledge about different traditions and practices and perspectives and ways of life. This promotes tolerance, empathy, and cooperation. Education also instills values such as integrity, responsibility and respect, which are crucial for personal and professional success.

History of Education and its Role in the Society

Education is as old as civilisation. As humans developed cognition and advanced ways of perceiving their surroundings, they began production and acquisition of knowledge. Whether it is the invention of language, discovery of fire or agriculture; all of these pivotal events in history that provided the necessary momentum for the human race to grow and dominate were all possible because there was someone out there willing to learn and use that knowledge actively. 

Ancient civilizations, such as India, Egypt, Greece and China, recognised the importance of education and established systems to impart knowledge and skills to their citizens. In ancient Greece, philosophers like Plato and Aristotle emphasised the role of education in developing virtuous and knowledgeable citizens. In India, learned men and women wrote texts, debated them, and then developed institutions that were a global attraction. For example, Nalanda University was a major centre for study of philosophy, tradition, Buddhism and much more.

Throughout history, education has been a catalyst for societal development and progress. The Renaissance period, for example, saw a renewed emphasis on education and learning, leading to significant advancements in art, science and philosophy. The Industrial Revolution brought about a shift in education, with a focus on technical and vocational skills to meet the demands of the growing industries.

Over the following decades and centuries, we see eminent institutions coming up around the world as the knowledge expands and progresses. In Europe, institutions like Oxford were established in the Americas, places like Harvard became much-coveted institutions for those seeking modern knowledge. The introduction of universal education in the 19th and 20th centuries is trying to ensure that knowledge is accessible for everyone. There is also a renewed focus on ensuring education for all because it is the only way through which we can reduce conflict and progress together as a global community.

Modern Education and its Contribution to Human Progress

This brings us to the important topic of modern education. Today, we have well-established institutional structures which are inspired by the primarily western model of instruction. It has enabled scientific discoveries, technological progress, secular understanding of the world and economic growth. As we face newer challenges, modern education also adapts and works towards dealing with these challenges like climate change.

Having said that, we are also seeing various debates and experiments in the field of education as we gain more understanding. There is greater emphasis on learning without fear, replacing the old style examination system with more dynamic ways of assessment and integrating concepts of social and emotional learning in the classrooms. All of this is being discussed because we are realising that education is not just about finding jobs but also about shaping our future.

The Broader Purpose of Education

While employability is an important aspect of education, it should not be its sole focus. Education is supposed to teach us values such as community, gender equality, cultural integrity, peace, empathy and social responsibility. These values are essential for building a just, inclusive and harmonious society.

As discussed above, one of the important aspects of education is also social-emotional learning. It is about developing skills like self-management, self-awareness, relationships skills, social awareness and responsible decision making. Integrating SEL into education helps create emotionally aware and socially responsible adults who can navigate the complexities of life with resilience and empathy.

Moving Beyond Employability

As we have looked at the various aspects of education and discussed its purpose in detail, it is perhaps easier to understand why we need to move beyond employability while thinking about education. While it is true that we need productive individuals to join the workforce, we must also remember that we are not building machines but nurturing humans and that’s why education must focus on civic engagement, personal development and lifelong learning.

This means students should not be restricted to the most in-demand topics to learn which enable them to earn good salaries in future, but they should also be encouraged to engage with subjects like literature, philosophy, history, etc. Civic engagement is another crucial aspect of education. It involves teaching students about their rights and responsibilities as citizens, encouraging them to participate in their communities and fostering a sense of social justice and activism. Civic education helps create informed and active citizens who can contribute to the betterment of society.

At the same time, every individual must be encouraged to become a knowledge seeker so that their learning and growth does not stop the moment they become employed. Education should be a lifelong companion to any individual.

At the end of this article, we understand why education cannot just be about employability. While we build the workforce for tomorrow, we must also focus on building empathetic, secure, responsible and creative humans. We must integrate values of respect, secularism, equality, and integrity in education. Because education is about igniting the fire within individuals, not just filling their pail.

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