By Our Reporter
SHILLONG, March 25: Education Minister Rakkam Sangma has suggested educational institutions integrate traditional knowledge with modern advancements to foster innovation and self-reliance.
Addressing the inaugural programme of a national workshop on ‘Building a Strong Foundation: Understanding the National Curriculum Framework of NEP 2020 on Early Childhood Care and Education (NCFECCE)’ as the chief guest, the education minister emphasised that learning is a continuous process that shapes individuals and society.
In his address, Sangma also underscored the need for skill-based education to prepare India’s youth for contemporary challenges such as climate change, technological advancements, and global crises.
He then spoke about the significance of maternal and child health, citing various government initiatives aimed at improving accessibility to education and healthcare.
He also called upon stakeholders—including teachers, policymakers, and institutions—to ensure the holistic development of students.
West Garo Hills Deputy Commissioner Jagdish Chelani, on the other hand, highlighted the role of Early Childhood Education (ECE) in reducing educational disparities. He described education as the greatest equaliser and stressed the importance of a strong early learning foundation.
Acknowledging existing challenges, he urged stakeholders to collaborate on long-term reforms to enhance education quality and infrastructure in Meghalaya.
The workshop, which was organised by the College of Community Science, Central Agricultural University (Imphal), Tura, Meghalaya, also featured a compendium release and insightful discussions from other dignitaries.
Similarly, JSD Maiong, Member of the Meghalaya State Commission for Protection of Child Rights, emphasised the link between education and child protection, advocating for policies that shield children from vulnerabilities such as child labour, exploitation, and neglect.
Ganesan P, Divisional Forest Officer, West Garo Hills, highlighted the connection between education and environmental conservation. He praised NEP 2020’s focus on experiential, play-based learning, which nurtures children’s curiosity and responsibility towards nature.
Earlier, Dr Jyoti V. Vastrad, Dean of the College, welcomed the attendees and stressed the importance of Early Childhood Care and Education (ECCE) under NEP 2020.
She praised the education minister’s commitment to strengthening Early Childhood Care and Education, and highlighted the role of the college’s Laboratory Nursery School in experiential learning and skill development.
The workshop, conducted in hybrid mode, witnessed participation from over 100 online registrants across 20 states and 45 offline nominations.
The sessions during the workshop covered key aspects of the National Curriculum Framework, including developmentally appropriate activities for holistic child development, play-based learning for foundational literacy and numeracy, parenting practices for early childhood growth, significance of toys in cognitive and social development, and inclusive education strategies for equitable learning opportunities.
During the workshop, renowned experts, policymakers and academicians shared insights on effectively implementing the ECCE framework, bridging the gap between policy and practice.