Vidya Bharati Aims for Indigenous Education: Magic Box Initiative Takes Center Stage At CUSB Workshop

GAYA – Vidya Bharati is working towards developing an indigenous education system with the assistance of the “Magic Box” educational toy, according to KN Raghunandan, Organization Secretary of Vidya Bharati Higher Education Institute.

The Vidya Bharati Institute of Higher Education (VBUSS) is dedicated to creating an indigenous education system aligned with the vision of a developed India by 2047. This educational approach aims to tailor education based on age groups, cultural nuances, and geographical features. To foster curiosity and creativity in pre-school children, the institution has developed “Magic Box” educational toys.

Raghunandan made this announcement as the Chief Guest during a workshop on the National Education Policy 2020 at the Central University of South Bihar (CUSB). Emphasizing the importance of value-based education, Raghunandan drew examples from tribal communities, highlighting practices such as the adoption of orphans in Chhattisgarh and the enduring joint family system in Dharwad.

Raghunandan stressed the need for higher education institutions to redesign their curriculum in alignment with the New Education Policy 2020, catering to the dynamic needs and aspirations of society. He emphasized the recording of indigenous knowledge through research-based interviews and urged a focus on ‘India-centric education’ to instill pride in Indian youth rooted in ‘Indian knowledge-tradition.’ VBUSS has already initiated the redesigning of the curriculum for over 20 subjects in collaboration with various higher education institutions.

During the workshop, experts such as Pro. Rabi Narayan Kar (Head, SLC, University of Delhi) and Prof. K.N.P. Raju discussed the importance of an interdisciplinary approach and the inclusion of ‘Commercial Geography’ in the curriculum. The scholars explored the integration of local small-scale industries and employability to contribute to the vision of ‘Atmanirbhar Bharat.’

The workshop, sponsored by the Indian Council of Social Science Research, was jointly organized by CUSB and Vidya Bharati Institute of Higher Education. The panel discussion and sessions addressed the development of curriculum and content in light of NEP 2020, with a telecast of Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s speech on “Ideas for Vision for Self-reliant India @ 2047.”

Prof Kiran Kumari presented reports from the workshop sessions, Professor Ravi Kant delivered the Presidential Address, and Dr. Tarun Kumar Tyagi, Convener of the Workshop, expressed gratitude. The event witnessed the presence of deans, heads of departments, academicians, and research students.