UGC Official Stresses Integration of Indian Knowledge System Across All Subjects
In a significant address at the Central University of Gujarat in Vadodara, Gopichand Merugu, the joint secretary of the University Grants Commission (UGC), clarified that the Indian Knowledge System (IKS) is not intended to function as a standalone programme. Instead, it is designed to be seamlessly integrated across all academic subjects to bring Indian perspectives, concepts, and core values into the mainstream of education.
Holistic Approach to Education Reform
Speaking at the valedictory ceremony of a six-day capacity-building programme held at the UGC–MMTTC of the Central University of Gujarat, Merugu elaborated on the broader objectives of IKS. He emphasized that the primary goal is to make education more relevant, holistic, and deeply rooted in Indian thought and traditions. By embedding IKS into curricula, the initiative aims to foster character building, support holistic personality development, and encourage indigenous research orientations.
Merugu highlighted that such capacity-building programmes are crucial for deepening educators' understanding of IKS and facilitating its effective inclusion in academic frameworks. This approach ensures that the knowledge system is not merely an add-on but a fundamental part of the educational experience.
Beyond Sanskrit and Pali: A Multilingual Perspective
Echoing this vision, Atanu Bhattacharya, the in-charge vice-chancellor of CUG, provided further insights into the scope of IKS. He pointed out that the Indian Knowledge System is not confined to ancient texts in Sanskrit or Pali alone. Instead, it is equally embedded in modern and regional languages, reflecting the diverse linguistic heritage of India.
"To understand IKS in its entirety, exploration of multiple languages is essential. It is not merely a tool, but a philosophy," Bhattacharya stated. This perspective underscores the need for a comprehensive approach that embraces India's rich linguistic diversity to fully grasp and implement IKS principles.
Successful Capacity-Building Initiative
The six-day programme, which concluded recently, was a testament to the growing emphasis on IKS in higher education. It featured 27 sessions conducted by 16 resource persons, attracting 66 participants from various academic backgrounds. This intensive training aimed to equip educators with the skills and knowledge needed to integrate Indian perspectives effectively into their teaching and research.
The event marks a pivotal step in the ongoing efforts to reform education by making it more inclusive and reflective of India's cultural and intellectual heritage. As institutions like CUG lead the way, the integration of IKS is expected to enhance the relevance and depth of education across the country.
