Organized by the Centre for Human Sciences, Rishihood University, in collaboration with the Indian Knowledge Systems Programme at IIT Delhi, and generously supported by the Indian Council of Philosophical Research.
In the evolving field of education, it is essential to revisit and reassess the fundamental philosophies that guide pedagogy. India’s rich heritage of ancient wisdom and diverse cultural traditions provides a unique foundation for innovative educational paradigms that bridge tradition and modernity.
Ancient Indian seers envisioned human growth as a holistic process encompassing physical, intellectual, moral, and spiritual dimensions. This comprehensive view shaped the ancient Indian education system, nurturing both knowledge and character. However, modern educational systems have increasingly focused on skills and behaviours necessary for specific occupations, often at the expense of holistic development. This shift necessitates a re-evaluation of Indian pedagogy to align more closely with its broader vision.
To reimagine Indian pedagogy, it is crucial to integrate ancient wisdom with contemporary educational philosophies. By examining the teachings of influential educational philosophers such as Rousseau, Montessori, Pestalozzi, Bertrand Russell, Paulo Freire, and Piaget, alongside Indian nationalist leaders like Swami Vivekananda, Gandhi, Rabindranath Tagore, and Sri Aurobindo, we can develop an educational framework that emphasizes comprehensive learning—learning to learn, know, do, live together, and be.
The National Education Policy (NEP) 2020 has initiated a significant transformation in the educational landscape, highlighting the importance of well-trained facilitators and culturally relevant content. Indian pedagogy, with its focus on holistic development based on concepts like the four purusharthas and panchakoshas, is vital for achieving educational goals within the Indian context. This is a significant tenet of living and learning at Rishihood University in Haryana as well.
The two-day round table conference aims to bring together educators, scholars, policymakers, and thought leaders. The goal is to explore the core elements of Indian pedagogy and envision a path forward, creating an educational methodology that resonates with ancient India’s spiritual and cultural heritage while addressing contemporary needs.
The discussions at the round table conference will cover a range of topics to contribute to a robust Indian pedagogy, including:
Examination of ancient educational practices and philosophies, emphasizing their holistic approach to learning and character development.
Understanding the fundamental principles and values underlying Indian education.
Understanding the psychological foundations of Indian education and their impact on teaching and learning.
Exploring traditional and modern teaching methods, focusing on experiential learning, discussion, and spiritual growth.
Investigating the Indian perspective on knowledgeseeking, including its spiritual and metaphysical dimensions.
Identifying core components such as respect for diversity, emphasis on cooperation, and integration of spiritual values.
Discussing the role of spiritual education in shaping students’ character and worldview.
Exploring the contributions of yoga and spiritual practices to educational outcomes and holistic growth.
Analysing the role of teachers in shaping the learning environment, fostering moral and intellectual growth, and embodying ideal characteristics.
Deliberating on philosophical aspects of education and their implications for defining the true aim of life.
Examining unique traits, such as the guru-shishya relationship, that distinguish ancient Indian education.
Identifying the qualities of ideal participants in the educational process, including teachers, parents, and students.
Discussing strategies for preparing and training teachers to embody Indian pedagogical principles.
Addressing the importance of incorporating values into education to foster ethical behaviour.
Delving into the unique philosophical perspective of India and its influence on educational outcomes.
The conference will be structured to encourage open dialogue and collaborative problemsolving. Each session will include expert speakers, panel discussions, and interactive workshops to facilitate the exchange of ideas. At the end of the conference, a comprehensive report will be compiled, summarizing key insights and recommendations for advancing Indian pedagogy.
The outcomes are expected to serve as a guiding document for educational policymakers and institutions, contributing to the development of a holistic and value-driven educational system in India. By embracing a pedagogy that integrates traditional wisdom with contemporary needs, the initiative aims to bridge the gap between tradition and progress, fostering an education system that promotes the highest human welfare.
This initiative seeks to cultivate an educational framework deeply rooted in India’s rich heritage while addressing modern challenges. By integrating ancient wisdom with contemporary educational practices, we aim to develop an education system that not only prepares individuals for professional success but also for meaningful, ethical, and harmonious living.
