In the year 2021, people and organizations tried to give their best to counter the damage done by the pandemic and came up with strategies that helped to recover the losses in the academic sessions. It was possible through great vision, efforts and hard work by different stakeholders in the process of transaction from offline mode of education to an online mode. The crisis was also greatly used to stimulate innovation within the education sector, like in other sectors, which led us to see emergence of novel approaches in support of an ideal education system. Serious efforts were made in a very short time to respond to the shocks to education systems and these efforts led to broadening of the horizons indicating that changes are possible.
The last two years will be greatly remembered for bringing courage, valor, commitment, and unity in this world. Most of us now have also learnt to live and progress with the new norms of life but there is a need to do more and contribute towards the true objectives of an ideal education system.
A tendency has developed in majority of the students to be casual in their approach. There are students who do everything including travelling, partying and visiting their relatives, friends, picnic spots etc. but they are showing resistance towards their education. There are others who have now an excuse in the form of Corona virus. But the students must not forget that employers have started raising questions on the degrees that were awarded during the peak of coronavirus pandemic. Students must do everything to prove such employers wrong. They must understand their responsibilities and develop their potential to the fullest.
The world will return to its normal position very soon and hence students must not waste their precious time by clinging to one or the other excuse. They need to build on their career plans right away that would help them to accomplish academic goals easily. If students make a plan, it is important to stick to it and devote time in learning new skills not underestimating the value of extra-curricular activities.
Educational institutions supported by teachers must continue their efforts to explore ways to empower students to think like artists, designers and change agents in the society. Students must be taught to walk with people to develop a sense of belongingness in them towards the society. As educators we have the privilege to impact many families and it must be done in a positive, supportive, and equitable way.
The authorities have a bigger role and must take education system very seriously as good education is not only a fundamental human right but also an enabling right with direct impact on the realization of all other human rights. It is a global common good and a primary driver of progress across all 17 sustainable development goals as bedrock of just, equal, inclusive peaceful societies. It, therefore, must always be a high priority sector.
Year 2022 arrived with omicron-fuelled surge in COVID cases causing widespread concern leading to another spate of lockdowns (though guided and guarded this time). Students need to be safe from the virus but must not develop lenient or casual approach towards their studies.
Dr. Shahid Amin Trali is an Associate Professor in the School of Management, ITM University Gwalior, Madhya Pradesh and can be reached at dr.shahidamin15@gmail.com
