Srinagar: In a forward-looking and innovative step, the National Child Development Council (NCDC) organized its Core Committee Meeting to deliberate upon an important proposal for educational reform that can reshape the landscape of higher education in India.
The main subject matter of deliberation was: “Changing the higher education class timings to 8:00 AM – 1:00 PM so that students above 18 years (post higher secondary) can pursue part-time jobs, skill development, or passion-based training in the second half of the day.”
The session began with Mohammad Rizwan introducing the topic, stating that education in India is compulsory only till age 14 or 10th grade. Post-secondary education (particularly undergraduate) does not provide students with sufficient flexibility to enhance financial independence or acquire hands-on experience.
This proposal seeks to: Enable students to work for part-time wages throughout the day, Provide them with practical exposure to occupational skills concerning their studies, Encourage self-sufficiency and financial expertise, Promote self-discovery and passion exploration through unfettered afternoons, and Enhance sleep hygiene and synchronize with the biological pace of students.
NCDC Master Trainer Baba Alexander said: “India’s largest strength is its youth. But we are not using or educating them properly. By adjusting the timing of classes and incorporating vocational work, students can gain practical skills alongside studying. That is necessary to create a future-proof workforce.”
He highlighted how this flexibility can: Asist in curbing brain drain, Augment GDP by engaging youth in the economy, Transform mindset of society towards dignity of labour, and Enable personalized career options in terms of interest and aptitude.
One of the NCDC members Radha while discussing about the topic has said that: “The majority of students take the career path laid down by their parents without knowing their interests. But later, when they go out for part-time jobs, they will know their strengths and gain confidence to pursue their own careers.”
She emphasized the importance of experiential learning so that students become more informed in choosing careers and handle actual problems.
Mohammad Rizwan of NCDC stated that: “This isn’t just about jobs. Students with artistic or athletic interests—such as dance, music, or sports—will at last get time to practice and develop them seriously.”
He emphasized the need to provide space for passion and creativity in conjunction with formal schooling.
NCDC member Anandhi said: “A lot of students from rural backgrounds fail to thrive at university because of language and cultural issues. Afternoon hours can be spent learning soft skills and language, enabling them to adjust quicker and develop.”
She also highlighted the mental well-being advantages of a balanced day and skill development opportunities for students from disadvantaged communities.
The session wrapped up with a compelling summary of all discussed perspectives, emphasizing: Financial independence enhances decision-making and self-discipline, Early work develops confidence and hardihood, Lower dropout levels, particularly among financially strapped young people, Improved utilization of biological and learning cycles (early morning concentration), Promotion of self-study, entrepreneurship, and creative exploration, and Improved parental awareness of alternative career options.
The NCDC, with complete consensus, decided to suggest this proposal to education departments and the Government of India for immediate approval.
Notably, The National Child Development Council (NCDC) is a self-governing national organization dedicated to advancing women’s rights and ensuring quality education for children across India.
