The National Institute of Educational Planning and Administration (NIEPA), a deemed to be University under the Ministry of Education, Government of India, organised the 16th Maulana Azad Memorial Lecture at the India Habitat Centre, New Delhi on the occasion of National Education Day.
Professor Kumar Suresh served as the Introductory and graced the occasion. The event paid tribute to Maulana Abul Kalam Azad, the visionary statesman, freedom fighter, and the first Education Minister of independent India, honouring his lasting contributions to nation-building through education.
Delivering the lecture on “Contemporary Education in the Light of Sri Aurobindo: School Education as it Could Be and Should Be”, Prof (Dr) Ramesh Bijlani, Trustee, Aurobindo Ashram, spoke about Integral Education a holistic approach that develops the physical, emotional, mental and psychic dimensions of learners.
He emphasised that education should go beyond rote learning to nurture curiosity, creativity and clear thinking, while cultivating joy in learning so that students become lifelong learners.
Bijlani further highlighted the concept of psychic education, awakening the inner self as the moral compass that guides one's actions, making character formation inseparable from intellectual growth.
He underlined the need to keep learners rooted in Indian culture and spiritual wisdom, integrating values, yoga and reflective practices into schooling.
Quoting Sri Aurobindo, he said, “The chief aim of education should be to help the growing soul to draw out that in itself which is best and make it perfect for a noble use.”
Adding to this, Prof. Shashikala Wanjari, Vice-Chancellor, NIEPA, remarked, “Maulana Azad's vision continues to inspire India's educational journey. At NIEPA, we strive to carry forward his ideals by promoting innovation, inclusivity, and excellence in education.”
The event had brought together academicians, policymakers, researchers, and students to deliberate on transformative ideas that shape education for a progressive and inclusive society. NIEPA had remained committed to advancing thought leadership in education through research, training, and dialogue resonating with India's evolving educational landscape. Dr Shri Surya Narayan Mishra, Registrar, NIEPA, proposed the vote of thanks.
