Coronavirus pandemic has disturbed different divisions in India. Including oil and gas, cars, flight, farming, retail, and so on. We cannot disregard that a segment would stay unaffected by the emergency. The effect might be pretty much. The same is with the education sector in India.
The state governments across the country started shutting down schools and colleges. There is uncertainty about the current situation when schools and colleges will reopen. This is a crucial time for the education sector as several university entrance tests, and competitive examinations are held during this period. Also, we cannot forget about board examinations, nursery school admissions, along with them.
The immediate solution of coronavirus is needed. If, like these days, the closure of schools and colleges in India do not even have a short-term impact. However, it can even have far-reaching economic and social consequences. Now let me tell you that around 600 million learners worldwide are affected due to the closedown of educational institutes. Know we are talking here about the school-going children.
Measures taken by educational institutes
Steps taken by the institutes of education are:
- Schools locked
- Tests deferred or rescheduled.
- Hygiene and maintenance of premises.
- Consideration of volatility in the long term etc
Impact and Concern during COVID-19
As mentioned above, all major entrance exams are postponed, including courses in engineering, medical, law, agriculture, fashion. This situation is an alarm bell, particularly in universities in the private sector. Some faculties and staff can also face pay cuts, bonuses, and raises.
The shutdown has generated confusion during the test process—the slowdown in student internships and placements. Colleges may face an effect, lower collection of fees that can generate obstacles in the management of working capital.
Another big concern is that it will affect many people’s paying ability. That is in the private sector, which is catering to a large part of the country’s students. Student counselling operations also face issues. Many institutions could pause the hiring of faculties’ plans, for existing vacancies that in effect affect quality and excellence. The school and learning system requires instruction and evaluation methodologies. These will be affected by the closure.
Technology, like home study, can play an essential role during the lockdown period. Some private schools in India may be adopting methods of teaching online. Private and government schools with low incomes may not be able to adapt teaching methods online. And as a result, due to no access to e-learning solutions. There will be a shut down for them. Students may often skip their meals—also, learning opportunities, which can result in economic and social tension.
Disruptions in Higher Education
There are also disruptions in the higher education sectors. This again paves an impact on the economic future of the country. Various Indian students have taken admission abroad, like the USA, UK, Australia. Moreover, because of COVID-19, these countries are very affected. There could be a risk that applicants may not be accepted in the future.
If the situation continues, the market for foreign higher education may decrease in the long term. Another big preoccupation is employment. Students who have completed their graduation may be afraid. Because of the current situation to withdraw work offers from the private sector. The Center for Indian Economy Monitoring reports a shortage of unemployment from 8.4% in mid-March to 23% in early April. The rate of urban unemployment is 30.9%.
We cannot ignore the fact that technology plays a crucial role in the education system. This is only the demand for the current situation.
Possible alternatives or solutions for interrupted education COVID-19
With the help of power supply, teachers and students use digital skills, internet connectivity.The focus needs to shift to Digital learning, high and low technology solutions, etc.. Students who come from low-income or disability groups should have provisions for distance learning programs. Providing resources to teachers and students for digitalization. The need to explore the opportunities for digital learning. Steps to reduce the impact of the pandemic on work opportunities, internship programs.There is need for research projects. National-level EDtech reform involving the integration of technology into the present Indian education system.
Conclusion
We cannot disregard the need for effective educational practice for the capacity-building of young minds. There is a need for the central government and the state to take some measures. This is to ensure the country makes progress.
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