It refers to a key principle within the Indian National Education Policy (NEP) 2020, which emphasizes integrating Indian cultural values, traditions, and knowledge systems into the curriculum, aiming to create an educational system that is deeply connected to the country's cultural heritage while still providing modern skills and knowledge.
Key points about NEP's "rootedness in culture":
1.HOLISTIC APPROACH: This principle goes beyond just teaching about Indian culture; it aims to embed cultural understanding into all aspects of learning, fostering a sense of identity and belonging among students.
2.LOCAL LANGUAGES AND DIALECTS: The NEP encourages the use of regional languages in education to promote cultural awareness and accessibility.
3.INDIGENOUS KNOWLEDGE SYSTEMS: Incorporating traditional knowledge practices and wisdom from diverse communities into the curriculum is a major focus.
4.VALUE-BASED EDUCATION: The policy emphasizes the teaching of ethical values and social responsibility that are deeply rooted in Indian culture.
Significance of "rootedness in culture":
1.EMPOWERING STUDENTS: By connecting education with their cultural background, students are likely to feel more engaged and empowered in their learning journey.
2.NATIONAL UNITY: Promoting cultural understanding across diverse regions can contribute to a stronger sense of national identity.
3.CRITICAL THINKING: Integrating cultural knowledge encourages students to analyze and critically engage with their own heritage.
Abiding by the above principles, Sparsh, Guwahati imparts education beyond academics and harnesses the opportunity to celebrate regional festivals in order to inculcate the rich culture, traditions and rituals into the tiny and impressionable minds of the students. Not only the celebrations teach the children about traditions, values and beliefs it also carves in the hearts of students about the importance of family and togetherness. These celebrations are an integral part of joyful learning and community building.
Sparsh through its untiring efforts and methods that reach tiny minds and hearts tries to give a deeper and a better understanding of the diverse and beautiful cultures of
India. These methods include activities like storytelling, arts, special assemblies and active participation in festival-related activities. Here children are also exposed to singing, dancing and other cultural activities signifying each occasion of festival or celebration.
Sparsh celebrates almost all regional festivals like Bihu, Pongal, Onam, Lohri, Holi, Janmashtami, Ganesh Chaturthi, Durga Puja, Guru Nanak, Eid, Christmas with enthusiasm, dedication, involvement, engagement and with great fervor that aims to create a joyful and enriching learning experience among the students.
