Siddharth Banerjee, CEO of UNIVO Education shares his views on opportunities and challenges of the education system in India with FE Education Online.
What is the best thing about today’s education system?
The best thing about today’s education system is that now one can not only access quality education through traditional institutions, but the rise of online Higher Education has added a new dimension of accessibility and flexibility, which has the potential to empower millions of young students in India and help us leverage our demographic dividend. Online Learners can now choose the learning mode that suits them best, whether it’s attending physical classes or studying online, particularly valuable for working professionals, parents, or anyone with other commitments, as it enables them to balance education with their daily lives, while earning their Online undergraduate and/or Postgraduate Degrees. In short, Online Higher Education is combining the traditional strengths of university education with the accessibility and flexibility of digital technology, providing individuals with a wide array of choices and opportunities to achieve their educational and career aspirations.
What is the one thing you would like to change in the system?
Our Education system has truly evolved in the past few years. With NEP 2020, there is a strong framework of positive changes for the education ecosystem in India. One facet that requires more work though is the integration of more industry ready pedagogy so that we continue to win in the Knowledge Economy of the 21st century.
What is the role digital has played in the evolution of the education system?
Digital technology has truly transformed the consumer landscape of India, including in Education. The accessibility, convenience, personalization, and affordability of online education have been nothing short of revolutionary. This digital transformation has seamlessly integrated into students’ lives, offering an incredible learning experience. The rise of online learning platforms has granted students unrestricted access to a world of educational opportunities while eliminating geographical constraints. One of the most significant benefits is the ease of assessment and rapid feedback, enhancing the learning process. Furthermore, compared to traditional alternatives, the cost-effectiveness of Online Education has democratized access to education, reaching a wider spectrum of students.
What has been the disadvantage of digital in education?
Digital education is not just a trend; it is the future of learning. Its advantages in terms of flexibility, accessibility, and personalized learning experiences make it a powerful force in education. As technology continues to advance, we can expect even more innovative and effective approaches to learning, preparing students for the challenges and opportunities of the future. The digital revolution in education has brought about transformative changes and it continues to shape the future of learning in significant ways. The one caveat though is to ensure that real world experiences and soft skills like peer to peer communication not be forgotten while utilising the power of digital screens.
What is the career advice you would like to give to students?
I have received some really good career advice over the years and here are five nuggets which I would like to offer to students. First, your career should align with your strengths and values, so explore your interests and take the time to discover what truly excites you and fuels you. Second, having identified some interests, seek out placement and internship opportunities that your ecosystem provides because real-world experience is invaluable to validate your starting points. Three, build connections and interact with people in your chosen industry so that you get a continuous stream of feedback, advice and connections from your network. Four, invest in yourself continuously. Learning does not stop after school or college. Stay updated on industry trends, take courses, attend workshops, and leverage online certifications to expand your knowledge and skills. And fifth, remember to maintain a healthy overall life balance, with time for work, family, health and personal interests. Think of your career not as a sprint, but a well-paced marathon.
