By Our Reporter
SHILLONG, Sep 23: Former Education Minister Ampareen Lyngdoh has said that far-flung states like Meghalaya often view privatisation in education with deep suspicion, given India’s long-standing socialist outlook.
Speaking at the 18th Convocation of Martin Luther Christian University (MLCU) at the Lariti International Centre for Performing Arts and Culture, Mawkasiang, she observed that “generations of Indian minds have been conditioned to immediately question any deviation from established norms.”
She stressed the need to strengthen early childhood education and admitted that despite government policies, gaps remain.
“On one hand, the government develops policies and plans, while critics may challenge them. Yet, the largest group of stakeholders we often fail to engage is the community itself,” she said.
Lyngdoh recalled her tenure as Education Minister, noting that many communities remain hesitant to accept private initiatives in education.
She added that teachers often believe only government management can guarantee salaries and benefits, while in rural areas, parents sometimes fail to see the value of schooling.
Highlighting systemic weaknesses, she cited the example of government schools operating between 7 am and 11 am, leaving children free for household chores for the rest of the day.
“This reflects the critical state of the education system,” she said.
In his convocation address, EducationWorld founder and editor, Dilip Thakore underscored India’s chronic underinvestment in education and research.
He pointed out that while countries like South Korea and China spend more than 4% of their GDP on research and education, India spends only 0.6%.
“Despite having 1,168 universities and 43 million students in higher education, India has not produced a game-changing product or technology in 75 years,” he said, citing dependence on imported jet engines as an example.
He also noted that India’s overall education expenditure has stagnated at 3-4% of GDP since independence, far below the 6% recommended by the Kothari Commission in 1967.
Calling for a renewed focus on innovation, applied research, and skilling, Thakore said that graduates in the past earned degrees without essential skills.
“Today, every student must acquire vocational training alongside academics. The world is volatile and uncertain, so always have a ‘Plan B,’ whether in music, gardening, or another practical skill,” he suggested.
ParentWorld founder and editor Summiya Yasmeen, also addressing the convocation, highlighted the importance of early childhood education, citing the work of Nobel laureate economist James Heckman.
She welcomed the inclusion of compulsory early childhood education for ages three to six in the National Education Policy 2020, calling it a major milestone.
Thakore endorsed Yasmeen’s view, saying: “It is easier to strengthen children than repair broken adults.”
He urged graduates to become advocates for quality education, especially in government schools, and identified early childhood education, skilling, and research as three critical priorities.
“As young graduates, your role extends beyond personal success. High-quality education for all is the golden key to India’s prosperity,” Thakore told the gathering.
