Prime Minister Narendra Modi emphasised the government's ongoing efforts to recognise teachers who employ innovative teaching methods during an interaction with National Teachers' Award recipients. As he subtly critiqued previous governments, Modi refrained from discussing past practices, focusing instead on current advancements, as reported by PTI.
In his address, Modi encouraged award-winning educators to play a pivotal role in shaping a 'Viksit Bharat' (Developed India) by preparing young students through creative and engaging teaching practices. The interaction, held on Friday, was shared via video on Saturday.
The Prime Minister suggested that teachers could engage students in selecting the top 100 tourist destinations across India. By researching these locations as part of educational tours, students would gain a broader understanding of the country's cultural and geographical diversity. This initiative aligns with the goals set forth by the new National Education Policy (NEP) 2020.
Modi highlighted that the awarded teachers were selected through a rigorous process, underscoring that their innovative approaches could significantly contribute to the successful implementation of the NEP. He also acknowledged that many other teachers across the country are doing commendable work in the field of education.
The Prime Minister urged teachers to take their students to nearby universities and sporting events, noting that these experiences could inspire students to pursue their dreams. The educators were advised to use social media platforms to connect and share best practices, fostering a community of continuous learning and development.
A total of 82 teachers from various parts of India were honoured with the National Teachers' Awards. This includes 50 educators selected by the Department of School Education and Literacy, 16 by the Department of Higher Education, and another 16 by the Union Ministry of Skill Development and Entrepreneurship, according to an official statement.
During the interaction, Modi underscored the impact of the National Education Policy, particularly the significance of learning in one's mother tongue. He suggested that teachers incorporate local folklore in their curriculum, teaching it in multiple languages to expose students to India's rich cultural heritage and encourage multilingual learning.
By focusing on innovative teaching methods and the NEP, Modi's address reflected his vision for an education system that not only imparts knowledge but also nurtures a holistic understanding of India's diverse culture and history, the PTI reported.