True empowerment for women can only be achieved through the powerful tool of education, stated a senior academic leader in Mysuru. The remark came during an event honouring a pioneering figure in India's educational history.
Education as the Antidote to Social Evils
Speaking at the 195th birth anniversary celebrations of Savitribai Phule, India's first woman teacher, MR Gangadhar, the Vice-Chancellor of Chamarajanagara University, delivered a powerful message. The event was held at the Board of Management Hall of the Karnataka State Open University (KSOU).
Gangadhar emphasised that providing quality education to women is essential to eradicate deep-rooted social evils that persist in society. He expressed serious concern that without ensuring free and accessible education for girls from poor and middle-class families, the nation will remain trapped in regressive practices.
He specifically pointed to the continued prevalence of child marriages in several regions. The VC asserted that educating girls stands as the most effective means to eliminate such harmful practices and to promote overall social development.
Privatisation and Systemic Challenges
The Vice-Chancellor also highlighted the growing challenges posed by the increasing privatisation of essential services. He noted that the trends of privatisation in education and healthcare have placed quality learning beyond the reach of many underprivileged children.
Offering a critical observation, Gangadhar stated that despite completing 75 years of Independence, India continues to be classified as a developing nation. He attributed this status largely to the absence of inclusive and high-quality education for all. He warned that without significantly strengthening the public education system, the country's aspiration to become a developed nation would remain unfulfilled.
Schemes Exist, But Social Barriers Remain
While acknowledging that both the Union and state governments have introduced several schemes to encourage education, Gangadhar pointed out a stark reality. Many girls are still unable to benefit from these initiatives due to prevailing social attitudes and a crippling lack of awareness among families.
He cited a recent and poignant instance from Chamarajanagar to illustrate his point. A meritorious science student who secured 85% marks was confined to her home for two years by her parents instead of being allowed to pursue higher education. Gangadhar shared that the student has now been admitted to Chamarajanagara University, giving her a renewed and hard-won opportunity to continue her academic journey.
The event was attended by several dignitaries from KSOU, including Vice-Chancellor Sharanappa V Halse, Registrar SK Naveen Kumar, Registrar (Evaluation) CS Anandkumar, Dean (Academic) M Ramanatham Naidu, and Programme Coordinator P Manjunath.
