What if the Education System Changed to Foster ‘Local Focus’ and ‘Self-Reliance’?

The education system is shifting towards fostering ‘local focus’ and ‘self-reliance’. How will our future change if this continues? Let’s think together.

1. Today’s News

Source:
https://knnindia.co.in/news/newsdetails/sectors/manufacturing/ncert-introduces-modules-on-swadeshi-and-self-reliance-for-students

Summary:

• NCERT has introduced educational modules themed around ‘Swadeshi’ and ‘Self-Reliance’.
• The ‘Swadeshi: Vocal for Local’ module for middle schools and ‘Swadeshi: For a Self-Reliant India’ for high schools play a role in connecting India’s past and future.
• This module includes excerpts from the Prime Minister’s speeches promoting India’s self-reliance.

2. Considering the Background

Behind this news is the reality that the education system is closely linked to the nation’s economic policies. Revitalizing local industries and building a self-reliant economy are goals that many countries aim to achieve. Education is changing as part of this effort to nurture the future business leaders. Such changes are likely to impact individual career choices and regional economies.

3. What Does the Future Hold?

Hypothesis 1 (Neutral): A Future Where Education Supporting Local Industries Is the Norm

Contents that support local industries will become standardized in educational curricula. As a result, students will deepen their understanding of the local economy and culture, considering employment or entrepreneurship in their regions. The cohesion of local communities may strengthen, and a society that places greater emphasis on local identity may emerge.

Hypothesis 2 (Optimistic): A Future Where Local Economies Flourish

If education that emphasizes ‘local focus’ and ‘self-reliance’ progresses, local economies will revitalize, leading to the emergence of diverse businesses. Students starting businesses locally and the cultivation of new industries will enrich entire regions, enabling sustainable living. Furthermore, tourism and cultural initiatives leveraging regional characteristics may develop, increasing the number of regions that gain international attention.

Hypothesis 3 (Pessimistic): A Future Where International Competitiveness Declines

On the other hand, if education focused excessively on local priorities, there is a risk of lacking a global perspective, leading to decreased international competitiveness. Concentrating on local development may weaken connections with the world, delaying the acquisition of new technologies and knowledge. As a result, there may also be risks of losing competitiveness in the international market.

4. Tips for Us

Thinking Tips

• Reconsider what resources and characteristics exist in your local area.
• Be aware of what skills and knowledge are necessary for self-reliance in your daily choices.

Small Practical Tips

• Try purchasing local products or attending local events.
• Discuss and share ideas with friends on solutions to local issues.

5. What Would You Do?

• Are you considering what you can do to contribute to local development?
• How will you leverage local strengths while maintaining an international perspective?
• Share your thoughts on how future education should evolve.

What kind of future do you envision? Please share with us through social media quotes or comments.