45-minute ‘happiness class’ in Delhi govt schools daily

Tribune News Service

New Delhi, July 2

The Delhi Government on Monday rolled out “happiness curriculum” for its students from nursery to Class 8 at an event attended by the Dalai Lama, who appreciated the initiative, saying India could lead the world in spreading peace, harmony and happiness by combining ancient and modern knowledge.

The new curriculum, essentially revolving around human values, reinforces the belief that the “wealth of happiness” forms the essence of “real wellbeing”.

Underlining the need for imparting meaningful education to students, the Tibetan spiritual leader asserted that only India had the ability to combine modern education with ancient knowledge, which was crucial for realisation of human emotions.

The Dalai Lama recalled the glory of Indian history, especially in education, and called for revival of the ancient knowledge and its spread across the world, including the countries practising Buddhism. “India can become the modern guru,” he added.

Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal described the “happiness curriculum” as the third stage of reforms in education sector that the AAP government had undertaken after focusing on infrastructure development and training of teachers in the government schools.

“Education is our topmost priority. Our government has done a lot to improve the quality and level of education in Delhi at war-footing. After developing infrastructure and imparting best training to teachers, now our top priority will be to prepare students as best citizens with the help of happiness curriculum,” Kejriwal said.

Deputy CM Manish Sisodia said the curriculum would involve a “happiness period” of 45 minutes in all Delhi government schools. “Each class will begin with a five-minute meditation practice and lessons will include value education and mental exercises, among others,” he said.

The new curriculum was designed by a team of 40 Delhi government teachers, educators and volunteers over a period of six months, said Sisodia who also holds the education portfolio.

Sisodia said 10 lakh school children and 50,000 teachers would participate in “happiness curriculum” classes every day and would ensure all-round development of students’ personality.