Reimagining Indian education: A shift from rote learning to holistic development

In an interview with The Tribune, Neerza Sud Mayor, vice chairperson, Mayor World School, shares that the education systems in Finland and Singapore remind us that schooling can be demanding yet balanced, nurturing children not just for jobs but for life itself.

The Indian education system is at a pivotal juncture. Today’s students face challenges unimaginable to previous generations—intense academic competition, the lure of digital distractions, climate change concerns and mounting social pressures. In this context, schools and families must critically reassess whether the focus of education is merely academic performance or preparing students with the skills, values and resilience to thrive in an increasingly complex world.

For too long, rote memorisation has been the cornerstone of Indian classrooms. While this method produces disciplined students with excellent recall, it often stifles creativity, curiosity and deeper understanding. Children may excel in reproducing information but struggle when applying it to real-world scenarios. The result: anxiety and self-doubt among students, with marks and ranks becoming the sole measure of worth. This narrow approach falls short of meeting the demands of the 21st century.

The world offers valuable lessons. Finland has proven that education can flourish without high-stakes testing, placing emphasis on experiential learning, curiosity and collaboration. Singapore, while maintaining academic rigor, continuously updates its curriculum to incorporate future-ready skills such as digital literacy, global perspectives and sustainability. These systems demonstrate that education can be rigorous yet balanced, nurturing children not only for careers but for life.

India, too, must find its own equilibrium. While academic depth remains critical, there is a pressing need to foster questioning, analysis, creativity and empathy. Students must understand that they are not just inheritors of the planet, but its caretakers. Topics such as climate awareness, ethics, technology and sustainability must be integrated alongside core subjects like mathematics and science.

Equally important is the emotional well-being of children. They need time, patience and a supportive environment. Parents must prioritise open communication, listen to their children's concerns and build their confidence. Unfortunately, many parents now argue with teachers in front of their children, setting a harmful example that erodes respect for educators and creates confusion among young minds. Disagreements must be resolved with dignity, as children often learn more from what they observe than from what they are told.

Values of empathy and kindness must be embedded into daily learning. Children should be encouraged to respect their elders, care for animals and understand that compassion is as essential as competition. Alongside academics, extracurricular activities such as sports, arts and drama are crucial. Sports teach discipline and teamwork, while music and the arts nurture creativity and self-expression. These activities contribute to a child's overall development, fostering balance, resilience and joy.

Mental health cannot be overlooked. The pressures of exams, digital isolation and rising anxiety among students highlight the need for schools to offer counselling, wellness programmes and safe spaces. Parents, too, must model balance in their own lives, promoting healthy routines and teaching their children to find joy in small, everyday moments.

Education must be reimagined as a harmonious blend of knowledge, character and compassion. It should prepare not only achievers but also empathetic leaders—young people who respect others, care for the environment and lead with integrity. If we succeed, India will not merely keep pace with the world; it will lead with vision and values.