As India sets its eyes on becoming a developed nation by 2047, there is a substantial demand for a highly skilled, resilient and flexible workforce.

While the educational landscape in India is vast and diverse, it is still not on par with global standards. According to news reports, the Ministry of External Affairs states that the number of Indian students enrolling in graduate and post-graduate courses in foreign nations reached 1.3 million in 2024.

This calls for significant measures and reforms in education to foster adaptability, critical thinking, and resilience in students. Let us delve into each of these aspects:

Adaptability is a crucial skill that involves aligning thoughts and behaviours in response to new conditions. In education, cultivating adaptability starts with a curriculum that promotes flexibility and openness to change.

Conventional learning approaches often impede this, creating a passive learning environment where students are not motivated to explore or question. By embracing project-based learning and interdisciplinary strategies, educators can design experiences that require students to adapt their reasoning to solve real-world problems.

Critical thinking is another vital skill that incorporates assessing and processing information. To navigate the complexities of the rapidly evolving business landscape, students should be encouraged to think independently, question assumptions, and engage in discussions that foster intellectual curiosity.

To accomplish this, educators should emphasise inquiry-based learning, where students ask questions and seek answers via comprehensive research and collaboration. By integrating critical thinking into the curriculum, students can develop essential analytical skills and a substantial understanding of fundamentals.

Furthermore, resilience is the ability to recover from hardships and adapt to challenges. It plays an essential role in the educational journey of students, building their capacity to cope with setbacks and stay motivated for long-term success.

Resilience can be promoted via supportive educational environments that acknowledge the significance of emotional intelligence and mental well-being. Schools should implement programs that teach students to manage stress and create positive relationships.

This will not only empower students to handle academic pressures but also prepare them for life challenges beyond the classroom.

It is also important to mention that technology integration in education unfolds a unique opportunity to enhance these skills. Digital literacy, which encompasses the knowledge to utilise technology effectively and responsibly, is becoming increasingly critical. With this, students can work together across geographical boundaries on projects, research, and problem-solving activities. It is, therefore, imperative for schools to continuously invest in infrastructure and educational resources to ensure that all students benefit from a modern, skills-oriented education. Additionally, teachers need to be equipped with the essential tools, training and support to effectively implement educational reforms and improve learning outcomes.

By supporting teacher education and professional development, educational institutions can ensure that educators are well-prepared to inspire and guide the next generation of learners and contribute towards the vision of Viksit Bharat.

Lastly, a joint effort between policymakers, educators, and communities is paramount to creating a conducive ecosystem for education that nurtures industry leaders, critical thinkers, and change agents.

(The author is Director, KGK Foundation)