Question

Write a Essay On the topic

Adult literacy program in India and its Importance.

Answer 1

Explanation:

In the history of adult education, the concept of adult education has con­stantly changed and developed under various nomenclatures. The key concept used up to 1947 was ‘basic education’ which was based on tradi­tional approach and focused on the programme of night schools.

Between 1949 and 1966, the concept used was ‘civic literacy’ which was based on life-oriented approach and focused on social education. Be­tween 1967 and 1977, ‘functional literacy’ concept based on work-oriented approach came to be emphasized in adult education which focused on functional literacy programme, farmer’s education and Shramik Vidyapiths. From 1978 onwards, ‘developmental literacy’ con­cept based on social change approach came to be used more which focused on total literacy campaigns.

The basic literacy concept evolved with the expansion of night schools which received grants-in-aid from 1929. The course in this scheme was spread over a period of two years and included simple les­sons in 3 R’s, stories of historical importance, and elementary lessons in health, hygiene and first-aid. The instruction was imparted for 2-3 hours in the evening. During 1938-39, a series of Provincial Mass Literacy Campaigns were organized by different provincial governments. It was estimated that during 1938-42, about 1.38 crore persons became literate.

Answer 2

Adult Education” is one of the most important and formidable issues in Indian education. The most urgent national need of our country to-day is the education of the adults who form the bulk of the population. More than 60 percent of our fellow countrymen still live in the darkness of ignorance and illiteracy.

In 1947, literacy in India was about 14 percent. In 1971 the per­centage of literacy in India was 29 percent (Census Report). According to 1981 Census it is 36 percent. That means 64 percent people in India are illiterate. This is the highest percentage of illiteracy in a country in the world. Half of the total illiterate population of the world lives in India. According to the census of 1981 the population of India is 75 crores.

If the education of children is important for the future welfare of the state, education of adults is very necessary for the very existence of democra­cy. There is no doubt that adult education is directly linked with the eco­nomic, social, cultural and political regeneration of a country.