Education is the foundation upon which peaceful and harmonious societies are built. In a diverse nation like India, where people of different religions, languages and cultures live together in harmony, education plays a critical role in nurturing mutual respect, tolerance and unity.
True education is not just about textbooks and exams – it is about shaping the mind and heart. It teaches values such as compassion, truthfulness, respect for others and empathy – values that are common across all major religions.
In Hinduism, the ancient principle of “VasudhaivaKutumbakam” – the world is one family – teaches the value of universal brotherhood. The Bhagavad Gita gives the principles of education, clearly indicating that education is spiritual – social necessity. True education should teach one how to achieve the ultimate aim of self-realisation through the pursuit of knowledge.
The Quran clearly says seeking knowledge is obligatory for every person. The very first verse of Quran started with seeking knowledge. The Quran says, “Read in the name of your Lord Who created, created man from a clot of congealed blood.”
The Bible says, “An intelligent heart acquires knowledge, and the ear of the wise seeks knowledge. When education includes moral and value-based learning rooted in these shared teachings, it builds bridges between communities. Schools and universities should not only teach academic subjects but also promote interfaith dialogue, cultural exchange and peace building activities. Exposure to diverse perspectives in a respectful environment helps dismantle prejudices andstereotypes, shaping young minds into responsible, empathetic citizens.
Inclusive education that respects all faiths and cultures is essential for reducing discrimination and fostering unity. By teaching students different traditions, histories and belief systems. Education cultivates an appreciation for diversity. Interactive learning methodssuch as group discussions, collaborative projects and community service encourage students to engage with people from varied backgrounds, reinforcing the idea that differences should be celebrated rather than feared.
Moreover, inclusive education that respects all faiths and cultures can reduce prejudice and stereotypes. When young minds are exposed to different perspectives in a respectful environment, they grow up as responsible and tolerant citizens of this country.
Education is the transmission of knowledge and skills and the development of character traits. Education is the process of acquiring knowledge, skills, values, beliefs, and habits through various forms of learning, including formal and informal instruction. Education is the most powerful tool to plant the seeds of social harmony in every heart. It plays a vital role in shaping individualsand society.
Some key roles of education include: 1) Knowledge acquisition: Education helps individuals acquire knowledge, skills, and values.2) Personal development: Education fosters personal growth, critical thinking, and problem-solving.3)Socialisation: Education promotes social interaction, cultural understanding, and community building. 4) Economic empowerment: Education enhancesproductivityandeconomic opportunities. 5) Civic engagement: Education encourages active citizenship, civic responsibility. 6) Innovation and progress: Education drives innovation, scientific advancements andsocietal progress.