Sadhguru, the founder of the Isha Foundation, has called for a reevaluation of the compulsory education system to better serve the nation and its children.
The Right to Education Act, implemented in 2009, aimed to provide education for all. One of its key features was the “All Pass” policy, introduced in 2019, which ensured students up to the eighth grade were promoted regardless of academic performance.
However, this policy faced resistance, with 16 states and two union territories opting out. These regions reverted to a system where students who failed grades five and eight would repeat the class. Meanwhile, Central government-run schools continued to implement the “All Pass” policy until recently.
In a sudden change, the Central government issued an order revoking the “All Pass” policy. According to the new directive, students in grades five and eight in Central government schools must pass their annual exams to be promoted. Those who fail are given a two-month period to attempt a retest. If they fail again, they must repeat the same grade.
Tamil Nadu opposed this move, announcing its decision to continue with the “All Pass” system in state schools.
In a statement, Sadhguru commented:
“The ‘All Pass’ policy was introduced with good intentions to prevent school dropouts. However, it has resulted in millions of children not gaining meaningful education. Many are unable to pursue traditional vocations such as farming, carpentry, and workshop trades, nor are they qualified for jobs requiring academic knowledge.
It is time to reconsider the concept of compulsory education in a manner that benefits the nation and its children. A system that imparts real-world skills and meaningful learning is essential.”
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