Education is every child’s fundamental right, and it is the State’s responsibility to ensure that all children—regardless of where they live—have access to quality education. The National Education Policy (NEP) was introduced with the vision of transforming learning systems in India, focusing on critical thinking, life skills, creativity, and values-based learning. It aims to move beyond rote learning and offer a more holistic, child-centric education that prepares children not just for exams, but for life.
Yet, despite this progressive vision, many government schools in rural India continue to face deep challenges—lack of infrastructure, insufficient teacher support, and inconsistent quality. In this vacuum, private schools have rapidly grown, promising English-medium instruction, modern facilities, and a competitive edge. But with these promises often come heavy school fees, expensive uniforms and books, and pressure that can place immense financial and emotional strain on families.
As parents begin to consider school options for the next academic year, it is essential to pause and reflect: What does your child truly need to thrive?
Is it high fees and brand-name schools that matter most? Or is it a learning space that nurtures your child’s curiosity, respects their pace of growth, and instills strong values? Do these schools align with your family’s cultural and financial realities? Do they allow your child to grow into a compassionate, confident, and capable individual?
The most important choice is not necessarily the most expensive school, but the one that allows your child to be a child—one where they can fall in the mud, climb trees, learn with joy, and rise with courage. A good school will focus on both academics and sports, encourage teamwork, and build life skills—whether it follows the CBSE, ICSE, SSC, or any other board. These boards are tools, not destinations.
Schools must be safe and welcoming places where children can ask questions, make mistakes, and discover who they are. And parents, especially in rural India where choices may be fewer but the stakes are just as high, must make informed decisions—not based on advertisements or social pressure, but on what is best for the all-round development of their child.
As the new academic year approaches, take the time to visit schools, ask questions, speak to teachers, observe classrooms. Choose a school that supports your child’s learning and your family’s values.
Because every child deserves not just an education, but the right education.
Are you making the right choice?
