The Aims Determined by the Secondary Education Commission
The Secondary Education Commission was established in India in 1952 with the aim of evaluating the state of secondary education and making recommendations for its improvement. The Commission recognized the importance of secondary education in the overall development of individuals and society, and it outlined several key aims to guide its work. These aims can be categorized into the following:
1. Universalization of Secondary Education:
The Commission emphasized the need to provide secondary education to all children in the country, regardless of their social or economic background. It aimed to ensure that every child had access to quality education, with a particular focus on reducing disparities between urban and rural areas, as well as between different regions of the country.
2. Expansion and Improvement of Facilities:
To achieve universalization, the Commission emphasized the need for the expansion and improvement of educational facilities. This included increasing the number of secondary schools, ensuring adequate infrastructure and resources, and improving the quality of teaching and learning. The Commission also stressed the importance of vocational education and the need to develop specialized institutions to cater to specific skills and interests.
3. Quality of Education:
The Commission recognized that the primary aim of secondary education should be to provide students with a well-rounded education that prepares them for higher education or the world of work. It emphasized the importance of a balanced curriculum that includes academic subjects as well as physical education, arts, and vocational training. The Commission also emphasized the need for qualified and well-trained teachers who can provide quality instruction to students.
4. Social and National Integration:
The Commission highlighted the role of secondary education in promoting social and national integration. It aimed to develop a sense of national identity, unity, and social cohesion among students, fostering values such as secularism, democracy, and respect for diversity. The Commission also emphasized the need to promote inclusive education that caters to the needs of students from different social, cultural, and linguistic backgrounds.
5. Preparation for Citizenship and Life:
The Commission emphasized the importance of secondary education in preparing students for active citizenship and life beyond school. It aimed to develop qualities such as critical thinking, problem-solving, communication skills, and ethical values among students. The Commission also recognized the importance of career guidance and counseling to help students make informed choices about their future education and career paths.
In conclusion, the Secondary Education Commission aimed to universalize secondary education, expand and improve facilities, ensure quality education, promote social and national integration, and prepare students for citizenship and life. These aims were vital in shaping the development of secondary education in India and continue to guide educational policies and reforms in the country.