Harnessing the Demographic Dividend: An Emergency Call to Action

I woke up to this news on a Sunday morning, and it hasn’t left my mind since. As a professional, I’m sure you’ll feel just as moved—or perhaps even outraged. NAAC, the watchdog of the quality of professional education is under the grip of corruption. But rather than just vent my frustration, I want to explore possible solutions—no matter how unconventional—and invite fresh ideas. Let’s start a conversation.

https://news.abplive.com/cities/cbi-arrests-naac-inspection-panel-chairman-jnu-professor-among-10-over-bribe-for-accreditation-seizes-rs-37-lakh-1748479

The demographic dividend for a country is not just about having a large segment of the population within a certain age group. It’s fundamentally about the quality of the people. Quality encompasses not only world-class skill sets but also core values and mindsets such as Excellence, Innovation, Integrity, Sustainability, Scientific Temper, Empathy, Resilience, Collaboration, Critical Thinking, Global Mindset, Entrepreneurial Spirit, Social Responsibility, Self-Discipline, Humility*.

These values are learned through modeling—by observing role models who demonstrate them through a congruence between their words and actions. These are not lessons that can be taught in class or learned by rote.

However, corruption in education, especially at the leadership level, acts like a rot at the roots of the nation. It undermines the very foundation upon which a society builds its future. If this corruption is not addressed, the so-called demographic dividend will quickly become a demographic liability.

This situation is an EMERGENCY. Immediate and decisive action is required to cleanse the rot and ensure that the education system produces not just skilled individuals but also principled leaders who can drive the nation forward.

To address this issue, the government must implement several key policies.

First, make it mandatory for every graduation and postgraduate institution to have experienced industry veterans on their boards. This ensures the quality and relevance of education are maintained. Additionally, the government should establish training and certification programs for these veterans to make them aware of the specific needs and responsibilities of their roles.

Furthermore, policies should be put in place to promote transparency and accountability in educational institutions. Regular audits and assessments can help identify and address instances of corruption. Just as a seasoned leader like Mr. Deepak Parekh was appointed to chair the board of Satyam in the wake of its scandal to safeguard stakeholder interests, instances of corruption and mismanagement in educational institutions should be addressed with the same level of urgency and accountability.

Also, the government should make investments in continuous professional development programs for educators and leaders mandatory to foster a culture of integrity and excellence.

Most importantly, allow foreign universities to set up campuses in India. This will bring affordable world-class education to India and elevate the standard of education.

By investing in these measures, we can transform the demographic dividend into a lasting legacy of progress and prosperity. Let's champion a future where our young population is equipped not only with skills but also with the values that will lead to sustainable and inclusive growth.

#vikasitbharat #developedindia #education #corruption #corruptionineducation Tagging the Honourable Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi for his kind attention to this pressing need.