The Government of India has taken several initiatives to achieve Sustainable Development Goal 4 (SDG 4), which focuses on ensuring inclusive, accessible, and equitable quality education. It is also aimed at promoting lifelong learning opportunities for all.
Some of the key initiatives and programs aimed at achieving Sustainable Development Goal 4 in India include:
Target 4.1 and 4.2: Free, equitable, accessible, and quality primary and secondary education with childcare development.
Sarva Shiksha Abhiyan (SSA): SSA focuses on providing free and compulsory education to all children aged 6 to 14 years.
Rashtriya Madhyamik Shiksha Abhiyan (RMSA): RMSA aims to enhance the enrollment rate in secondary schools and improve the quality of education by providing resources, infrastructure, and teacher training.
Mid-Day Meal Scheme: This scheme aims to improve school attendance and nutrition among students by providing free midday meals in government schools.
Target 4.3 and Target 4.4: Affordable and quality technical, vocational, and tertiary education, including university. Increase the number of youth and adults who have relevant skills.
National Skill Development Mission (NSDM): NSDM aims to provide skill development and vocational training opportunities to equip the youth with relevant skills for employment. It includes schemes like Pradhan Mantri Kaushal Vikas Yojana (PMKVY) and Skill India Mission.
Community Colleges: The concept of community colleges has been introduced to offer vocational and skill-based courses at an affordable cost. These colleges collaborate with local industries to provide practical training.
Polytechnic and ITIs: Polytechnic colleges and Industrial Training Institutes (ITIs) offer technical and vocational courses at the post-secondary level. These institutions focus on skill development and prepare students for a wide range of technical careers.
Target 4.5: Eliminate gender disparities in education and ensure access to all levels for the vulnerable population (People with disabilities etc.)
Gender Sensitization: Gender sensitization programs in schools and communities have been taken to raise awareness about the importance of gender equality in education.
Beti Bachao, Beti Padhao (BBBP): While primarily focused on gender equality and female empowerment, BBBP also promotes girls’ education as a means to empower women and ensure their participation in society.
Target 4.6 and 4.7: Ensure that all youth and a substantial proportion of adults achieve literacy and numeracy. Ensure that all learners acquire the knowledge and skills needed to promote sustainable development.
National Education Policy (NEP) 2020: The NEP 2020 is a comprehensive reform in the education sector that aims to transform the Indian education system. It emphasizes holistic development, flexible curriculum, technology integration, and increased funding for education.
Digital India Initiative: The Digital India campaign seeks to enhance digital literacy and access to information and communication technology (ICT) in schools and rural areas. This initiative aims to improve the quality of education through technology.