India is a big nation having a population of around 1.37 billion which is equivalent to 17.74% of the total world population. According to a recent UN report, India also has the largest youth population accounting for more than 600 million people under the age of 25.
India has quite a large portion of its population under the age of 25. But sadly it’s also home to the largest number of child labourers in the world.
The census found an increase in the number of child labourers in recent years. What is the main reason behind this increase? Poverty and lack of social security are the main causes.
Only 44% of Indian children complete their 10th studies. Most of the children belonging to the poor section of families do not complete their 10th and drop out of schools.
There are two different sections of people in India, the rich people and the poor people. The rich people are getting richer day by day and the poor are getting poorer day by day. But why is it so? Why are so many children dropping out of the schools? Let’s find out.
Low-quality Education
Even though the government says to be providing free education to the poor people but the quality of education is very low. The quality of education in government schools are so bad that students lose interest. Those who can afford private institution are getting quality education and better lifestyle.
There is no doubt that a huge amount of money is spent to uplift the education standard by the government. But no one knows where the money is really going. The teachers who are teaching in government schools are not getting paid on time even after working hard. Sometimes the teachers have to work without getting a salary for more than a month. The classrooms also lack in infrastructure and hygiene.
Uninteresting Way of Teaching
The main reason for so many children dropping out of the schools is the uninteresting way of teaching. The theoretical approach that Indian schools follow are really uninteresting, it does not increase curiosity in students.
This approach drives the children away from studies because they think that study is only about reading books. Instead of focusing on theory, the teachers should rather involve some practicals in class which will increase the curiosity in children. Their interest will increase when they will get involved in projects and real-life applications. Teachers should also show pictures and videos to gain children’s interest.
Gender Bias
Gender discrimination still exists in India. People in villages and especially the poor section still hesitate to send their girls to school. This mentality is changing but still has a long way to go. Girl education is very important and they are catching up fast.
Conclusion
As India is about to become the country with the largest and the youngest workforce that the world has ever seen, it’s very important to focus on its quality of education. More than 600 million people are below the age of 25 but not all of them have the skills and proper education. Now is the time for the government to focus on education and provide proper education, especially to the poor section of the society.
