Himachal Pradesh Governor Shiv Pratap Shukla made a strong case for quality education in rural regions on Monday. He spoke at the inauguration of undergraduate programs at Sarvepalli Dr Radhakrishnan College of Education in Nogli, Rampur subdivision, Shimla district.
Focus on Education Quality Over Infrastructure
Governor Shukla emphasized that educational institutions must be judged by more than just their buildings and facilities. He stated that the real measure of success lies in the standard of education provided and how well students' talents are nurtured. This approach, he argued, is crucial for rural areas where resources can be limited.
Teachers as Architects of Character
Shukla highlighted the pivotal role teachers play in shaping young minds. He stressed that true education goes beyond academics to cultivate the spirit of a teacher within every learner. The governor urged the college to uphold the ideals of Dr Radhakrishnan, who viewed teachers as architects of character.
He connected this to the new undergraduate courses being launched—BA, BSc, and BCom programs. These courses, Shukla noted, will create valuable opportunities for local students in the Shimla district. By providing education closer to home, they promote self-reliance and reduce the need for students to migrate to urban centers.
Aligning Training with Indian Values
The governor emphasized that teacher training should align with Indian values and cultural ethos. He pointed to India's rich tradition where the guru is revered as a guide who shapes both individuals and society. Drawing from mythology, Shukla mentioned how Lord Ram and Lord Krishna followed the guru-shishya tradition, learning from their teachers with deep respect.
He linked this to the National Education Policy, noting its role in instilling values, ethics, and a connection to India's great thinkers. The policy, he said, helps bridge modern education with timeless Indian principles.
Addressing Social Challenges
Shukla also touched on pressing social issues, emphasizing the need to combat drug abuse in Himachal Pradesh. He suggested that strong educational foundations and value-based teaching could play a key role in addressing this challenge, especially among youth in rural and suburban areas.
The governor's remarks underscored a holistic vision for education—one that combines academic excellence with character building, rooted in Indian traditions while addressing contemporary needs.
