The Disconnect: How Our Education System Fails Today's Youth
22-05-2024
Abstract
This article discusses India’s growing young population and the obstacles they face in an education system that prioritizes rote memorisation over practical, hands-on abilities. It further emphasises the growing digital and educational divide, which disproportionately affects marginalised communities and contributes to alarming rates of youth unemployment. Moreover, it draws light on initiatives such as the National Education Policy 2020 and the growing political momentum towards enhanced participation of youth. The article advocates for concerted measures, including public-private partnerships, to address youth unemployment as a moral imperative.
Introduction
India, known for its vibrant democracy and rich cultural heritage, stands at a pivotal moment in history, propelled by the energy and potential of its youthful population. With over 50% of its population under the age of 30, as revealed by the National Family Health Survey (NFHS 4), the nation holds within its grasp an immense wellspring of talent and ambition. However, amidst this abundance lies a pressing question: where do these young individuals stand, and how are they shaping India's present and future?
In examining the landscape, one cannot ignore the prevailing challenges that hinder the realisation of this demographic dividend. At the heart of these challenges lies an educational system that often prioritises rote memorisation over critical thinking and practical skills. The traditional approach to education, focused on textbooks and examinations, leaves many students ill-prepared for the complexities of the modern world. The ASER 2023 report, titled “Beyond Basics” underscores this issue, revealing that approximately 25% of students in the age group of 14–18 still cannot read a standard II-level text fluently in their regional language (Hindustan Times, 2023).
In today's dynamic job market, characterised by rapid technological advancements and evolving industries, the demand for practical, hands-on skills is greater than ever before. Fields such as coding, artificial intelligence, and data analytics have emerged as pillars of innovation and growth, yet these areas remain largely neglected in mainstream education. This leaves many young people finding themselves unequipped to seize the opportunities of the digital age, further perpetuating a cycle of underemployment and unfulfilled potential.
This educational disparity is further compounded for marginalised communities, for whom access to quality education and resources is often limited. For youths from marginalised communities, the lack of exposure and opportunity further exacerbates their struggle to break free from the cycle of poverty and unemployment. In addition to the challenges posed by the educational system, there is also a significant digital divide that disproportionately affects marginalised communities, hindering their access to the opportunities needed to thrive in the digital economy. For instance, according to Oxfam’s “India Inequality Report 2022: Digital Divide,” access to the internet through any kind of device was significantly higher in urban areas at 44%, compared to just 17% in rural areas (India Development Review, 2022)..
This urban-rural divide often leaves a significant section of the youth at the sidelines of progress, unable to fully participate in India's economic growth. The consequences of this educational divide are also starkly evident in the rising rates of youth unemployment. According to an “India Employment Report 2024,” released by the Institute for Human Development and International Labour Organization, a staggering 82.9% of the unemployed population in India were youth, with higher rates observed among those with secondary or higher education qualifications (Indian Express, 2024). The statistics paint an even bleaker picture when it comes to women. Women face disproportionately higher rates of unemployment compared to men. For instance, according to the "Periodic Labour Force Survey Annual Report (PLFS)" (2023), the share of women in the workforce at 26.3% in 2022 is much lower than the global average of 39.7%.
Reflecting on personal experiences, it is evident that the journey of navigating career choices can be fraught with challenges, especially when lacking proper guidance and support. Like many others, I relied on personal instincts and limited information to chart my path, often making uninformed decisions that could have been avoided with access to better information and resources. However, amidst these challenges, there is cause for optimism.
In recent years, there has been a growing recognition of the need for transformative change in education and skill development. Initiatives like the National Education Policy 2020 represent a significant step
forward, with its emphasis on holistic learning and the integration of vocational education into mainstream curriculum. By providing students with hands-on training and real-world experience, the policy aims to equip them with the skills they need to succeed in the 21st-century workforce. Furthermore, several organisations and initiatives have emerged to bridge the gap between education and employment for underserved youth. From skill development programs to mentorship initiatives, these efforts are empowering young people with the tools and resources they need to thrive in a competitive job market.
As India goes through the ongoing Lok Sabha elections, there is a growing momentum behind the need to prioritise youth empowerment and employment generation. Major political parties have included promises of apprenticeship programs and skills development initiatives in their manifestos, signaling a recognition of the urgent need to address the issue.
Conclusion
Addressing youth unemployment requires more than just political rhetoric; it demands a concerted effort from all sectors of society. Public-private partnerships have a crucial role to play in this regard, leveraging the resources and expertise of both government and industry to create sustainable solutions. By working together, we can ensure that every young person can fulfill their potential and contribute to India's prosperity.
At its core, the issue of youth unemployment is not just an economic challenge; it is a moral imperative. It reflects our collective failure to provide every young person with the opportunity to succeed, regardless of their background or circumstances. As a nation, we stand at a pivotal crossroads where we cannot afford to idly watch the talents of our youth go untapped and their dreams unrealised. In nurturing the potential of our youth, we sow the seeds of a brighter, more equitable future for all.
Author Bio:
Shubhashis Saha, a passionate development professional, intricately weaves his commitment to social change with stakeholder management and project execution skills. Holding a postgraduate degree in Development Management from the Indian School of Development Management and an MBA from the Bengal Institute of Business Studies, Shubhashis thrives in team leadership and partner engagement. Currently excelling as Senior Executive- Government Relations at Lighthouse Communities Foundation, he spearheads impactful collaborations with key stakeholders.
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