Beyond Books and Marks: Assam Governor Pushes Value-Based Education for Children
In an age dominated by rapid technological change and intense academic competition, Assam Governor Lakshman Prasad Acharya has called for a return to the moral roots that have long defined Indian society. On Sunday, at the Lohia Lions Auditorium in Guwahati, the Governor inaugurated “Sanskaar Shaala,” a value-based education program designed for children between the ages of four and fourteen. The initiative seeks to complement formal schooling by nurturing ethical values, cultural awareness, and social responsibility from an early age. The program reflects a growing recognition that education is not limited to textbooks, examinations and careers alone. Instead, it is equally about shaping character, behavior, and a sense of duty towards society. By focusing on young children, Sanskaar Shaala aims to sow the seeds of integrity, discipline and compassion at a stage when minds are most receptive.Values as the Foundation of SocietyAddressing students, parents, educators and community members, Governor Acharya stressed that values are the invisible pillars on which society stands. He observed that goodwill and good wishes are deeply woven into India’s cultural ethos and continue to guide interpersonal relationships even in modern times. Quoting the Sanskrit maxim “Sanskarah hi gunanam moolam,” he explained that values are the root of all virtues. According to the Governor, while formal education equips children with skills and knowledge to succeed professionally, values shape how those skills are used. Intelligence without ethics, he cautioned, can become dangerous, whereas learning grounded in moral discipline creates responsible and noble citizens. His remarks resonated strongly with parents in the audience, many of whom expressed concern about balancing academic success with character development in today’s fast-paced world.Relevance of Ancient Indian Wisdom in Modern TimesThe Governor highlighted that India’s ancient civilizational wisdom remains deeply relevant, even in a globalized and technology-driven era. Referring to texts such as the Vedas, Upanishads, Ramayana, Mahabharata and the Bhagavad Gita, he noted that these scriptures offer timeless guidance on truth, duty, righteousness and self-control. He emphasized that progress should not come at the cost of morality. In a world increasingly shaped by artificial intelligence, digital media, and fierce competition, values such as honesty, compassion, and respect for others act as moral anchors. Sanskaar Shaala, he said, draws inspiration from this rich heritage to ensure that children grow not only as achievers but also as humane individuals capable of empathy and ethical decision-making.A Community-Driven Effort to Preserve Cultural HeritageGovernor Acharya praised Sanskaar Shaala as a meaningful initiative to preserve and promote India’s moral and cultural heritage through community participation. He noted that the program reflects the broader national vision of development with values, aligning with the leadership of Prime Minister Narendra Modi, under whom India is progressing economically while reaffirming its civilizational identity. The Governor also acknowledged the contribution of the Marwari community, commending its long-standing emphasis on ethics, charity, and social responsibility. He expressed hope that similar initiatives would be adopted by other organizations and communities, creating a wider movement for value-based education across the country. Such efforts, he said, strengthen the social fabric and ensure that growth remains inclusive and ethical.Why Value-Based Education Matters for ChildrenSanskaar Shaala’s focus on children aged four to fourteen reflects an understanding that early childhood and adolescence are critical stages for moral development. At this age, children absorb values not only through instruction but also through stories, examples and daily practice. By integrating lessons on respect, honesty, discipline and social responsibility, the program seeks to create a strong ethical foundation that stays with students throughout life. For many parents, the initiative offers reassurance that their children are being guided not just academically, but morally. In a society where external influences are increasingly strong, structured value education provides clarity and direction, helping young minds navigate right and wrong with confidence.Education as a Path to Confidence and Self-RelianceThe Governor praised the school’s adoption of modern technology to aid learning and lauded former students who have achieved success at national and international levels. For students present at the celebration, his words carried a deeply personal message. Education, he reminded them, is not merely about qualifications but about confidence, self-reliance and the belief that one can contribute meaningfully to society. As India moves forward in a rapidly changing world, initiatives like Sanskaar Shaala serve as reminders that progress rooted in ethics, compassion and cultural awareness is both sustainable and humane.
.jpeg)
