Transformative Education Future in Budget 2024

The education sector is the bedrock of the country's economic and socio-cultural identity and stands at the forefront of innovation and adaptability, ready to face evolving needs of learners in the years to come.

The year 2023 proved to be a pivotal year for education in India, marked by significant strides and ongoing challenges. The year witnessed the continued implementation of the National Education Policy (NEP) 2020, bringing about a paradigm shift in the educational landscape, reshaping it for the better.

In the upcoming budget, some specific areas of favourable allocation should include: expansion of infrastructure for education, investment in skill development programs, particularly in areas that align with emerging industries, expansion of scholarships and other financial aid programs for students from economically weaker sections of society, implementation of new pedagogical methods, strengthening of vocational training programs to equip students with industry-relevant skills and increased investment in research and innovation in the field of education.

There is a need to upscale the education system to attract more foreign students to the country and India should be promoted as a global study destination. A large part of the population depends on educational loans to pursue their studies. Hence, encouraging more students to take up their course of interest with lower interest rates on such loans is essential for their optimal growth and development. Additionally, the government is expected to announce measures to further promote the integration of technology in education and to build future-ready skills in students. We hope that the government will ensure that students are equipped with the skills and knowledge required to succeed in the rapidly changing job market of the future.

Overall, addressing issues like gender disparity, access to quality education in rural areas, and the need for increased investment in education are crucial in achieving equitable and inclusive education for all. Another important aspect to be considered is improved internet connectivity infrastructure across the nation that promotes last-mile access.

Looking ahead, we must strive to ensure that the learning experience remains meaningful and enriching. Overall, it is important to nurture, challenge, and empower all students to be successful in whatever they choose in life through transformative initiatives. We expect that the upcoming budget promises adequate public investment on education to lead young India on the path of unprecedented growth.

Shweta Sastri, Managing Director, Canadian International School, Bangalore

Over the last couple of years, education has seen an increase in funds allocated towards increasing outreach, skill development, and improving its quality. However, as education is a key development sector, we have huge expectations from the upcoming budget. It should address the core aspects of education with a view to enhance quality of learning, improve teacher professional skills and build robust infrastructure. Today, education systems continue to face hurdles in effectively supporting learning in the current context and overall student development in an increasingly challenging world.

While new educational policies have identified many path-breaking initiatives, we urge the government to focus on expanding access to education and technology, particularly in rural and underserved areas. We have to build the right combination of Digital, Physical and on-the-job classrooms infrastructure that will improve the efficacy of learning. We also need to create an enabling environment to let the private sector come forward and establish new institutions. Ease of doing business is more important here than anywhere else.

There is also a need to advocate gender-focused allocation to promote womens' education. The country is in need of expertise at different levels and this demand can be met only by training students at the school level. The foundation and vision set by the government, through NEP will be vital in achieving the goal of an effective and inclusive education system. However, the future of Indian education will be marked by innovation, inclusivity, and a commitment to prepare students to face challenges and opportunities that lie ahead. Overall, we hope that the budget gives a much-needed boost to the education sector to cope up with varied tasks in the current context.

ETS - Educational Testing Service, (brand owners of TOEFL & GRE)

Spokesperson: Mr. Sachin Jain, Country Manager, India, and South Asia

Quote: As we look ahead to the upcoming budget for 2024, ETS urges policymakers to allocate resources that accelerate global mobility of India's young talent. This includes inclusion of language skills and internationally recognized work skill certifications in Indian classrooms. Skills development enterprises, both public and private, must leverage globally benchmarked and recognised skills framework and certifications as these are valued by employers internationally."

Policy makers should also look at a comprehensive merit scholarship program for deserving Indian students for postgraduate and research studies in foreign universities with an aim to drive research and innovation in India post completion of their studies.
We also urge policymakers to advance public private partnership models that accentuate the "Study In India" initiative, which aims to reinforce India's position as a Vishwa-Guru to the world.

English is crucial for students, going beyond other skills. It opens doors to global communication, academic achievements, and various career paths. Proficiency in English allows access to a wealth of information, technology, and global connections. It also helps build vital soft skills like effective communication and critical thinking. Beyond academics, English proficiency enhances cultural understanding, broadening students' perspectives. In a connected world, it's a fundamental skill, empowering students to confidently navigate education, careers, and diverse cultures.

Burlington English- (a global education company with presence in 100+ countries worldwide with 3000+ learning institutions in India)

Spokesperson: Mr. Amit Baveja, Managing Director, Burlington English(India)

Quote: As we look to the fiscal year 2024-25 Union Budget, our expectations are grounded in a broader assessment of the current state of education in the country, reflecting both persistent challenges and opportunities for improvement. The recent Annual Status of Education Report 2023 serves as just one illustration of the pressing need for attention and reform in various aspects of our education system. The report reveals that among students aged 14-18 from rural backgrounds, around 25% could not read a Class 2-level textbook in their regional language. Similarly, almost 58% of these students could not read and comprehend sentences in English. Recognizing the urgency to uplift the quality of grassroots education, we advocate for a higher budget allocation to expedite initiatives in these underserved areas.

The recent implementation of the NEP, specifically the continued emphasis on skilling and nurturing the development of our youth towards employability has been commendable. This focus is critical to creating a workforce that is not only well-educated but also job ready. We expect deeper penetration of the NEP in tier 2 and tier 3 cities through various training-led initiatives and look forward to provisions in the upcoming Union Budget 2024-25. We hope for a budget outlay for building linguistic capabilities of our students and young adults, particularly in English. Additionally, we emphasize the significance of teacher development, a critical component of successful teaching and learning processes. The vital emphasis on teacher training outlined in the NEP 2020 should involve innovative pedagogy, upskilling, and curriculum development.

Furthermore, we anticipate government incentives for hybrid education which combines traditional teaching methods with technology, especially in tier 2 and tier 3 cities. This could be achieved by establishing digital learning labs in collaboration with private players to enhance learner outreach. We are confident that the Union Budget will contribute significantly to India's global competitiveness by fostering outcome-based education.