Re-Emergence of the Aim and Objectives of the Vedic System of Education in Ancient India through the ‗Four Pillars of Learning‘ In Delors Commission Report, 1996

Abstract

The International Commission on Education for the Twenty-first Century chaired by Jacques Delors in 1996 recommended some valuable and relevant suggestions for the improvement of learning as well as teaching processes and systems. The Commission provided immensely important guidance regarding the principles and direction of the educational system. The 'Four Pillars of Learning' are among those principles which narrate basically how learning should lead the all-round development of a learner systematically through gaining knowledge, applying that knowledge in practical life, living in harmony with others and, above all, building a perfect humane character and personality. Indian tradition since the ancient ages keeps believing that education or learning must build the character and personality of a human being noble if it claims to be called a 'true education'. The learning which is not capable of raising the level of humanity and spirituality within a person/learner, though it may raise the levels of intelligence and skills, is not considered as 'Vidya' or genuine education in India. The noble aim and objectives of the Vedic system of education in ancient India, which aim at 'Self realization', emphasize upon the culture of 'Para Vidya' or spiritual knowledge but not at all ignoring the culture of 'Apara Vidya' or material knowledge, and scientifically establish the idea of 'oneness' (Non-duality) and 'togetherness' ('Unity in diversity'), set this tune in this pious land more than three thousand years ago. In this connection, the underlying essence of the Delors Commission Report's 'four pillars of learning' seems to be very much harmonious, may not be throughout but certainly up to a considerable range, with the underlying philosophy of the aim and objectives of the Vedic system of education in ancient India. The present study attempts to unfurl the reflections of the age-old Vedic educational system's aim and objectives in the Delors Commission Report's 'four pillars of learning' through a purely qualitative research approach.