Impact of National Education Policy 2020 on Legal Education.

Abstract

Education is the single greatest tool for achieving social justice and equality. Inclusive and equitable education - while indeed an essential goal in its own right - is also critical to achieving an inclusive and equitable society in which every citizen has the opportunity to dream, thrive, and contribute to the nation. It is fundamental for achieving full human potential, developing an equitable and just society, and promoting national development. Higher education must build character, enable learners to be ethical, rational, compassionate, and caring, while at the same time prepare them for gainful, fulfilling employment.1 Different countries adopt different approaches to fulfill this objective of holistic education. Government of India announced its New Education Policy which is based on the recommendations by an expert committee headed by Dr. Kasturirangan, Former chairman of the Indian Space Research Organization (ISRO). New Education Policy 2020 is on the lines of universalizing education from pre-school to secondary level. It replaces a 34-year-old policy to become a more inclusive, holistic, comprehensive, and far-sighted policy to make India a knowledge hub by the end of this decade. Under the new policy, the government aims to bridge social gaps in participation, access, and learning outcomes in school education with a target of 100 percent Gross Enrolment Ratio (GEER) by 2030. This policy envisages the revision and revamping of all aspects of the education structure, including its regulation and governance, to create a new system that is aligned with the aspirational goals of 21st century education. It focuses on quality education at all levels starting from early childhood to higher education. This paper focuses on impact of NEP 2020 on legal education system along with some suggestions for its effective implementation.