Decline of Public Universities in India

The decline of liberal, affordable, and inclusive public universities in India is a source of immense concern and sadness. These institutions once played a crucial role in shaping intellectual and empathetic citizens, transcending mere job-oriented education.

The Value of Public Institutions

• Institutions like Presidency College, Kolkata and Jawaharlal Nehru University (JNU), New Delhi were instrumental in shaping holistic education, emphasizing critical thinking and empathy.
• Education was seen as more than just a means to secure employment or salary packages.
• These institutions promoted inclusivity, allowing students to transcend caste, class, and religious identities.

Recent Changes and Challenges

Current challenges facing public universities arise from two major trends:

• Political Influence:
  • The rise of authoritarianism and hyper-nationalism has stifled academic freedom.
  • Pervasive stigmatization of critical thought and dissent, labeling it as anti-national.
  • Politically appointed leaders enforce a singular ideological line, limiting intellectual diversity.
• Neoliberal Influence:
  • Education is increasingly viewed as a commodity for economic productivity.
  • There is a devaluation of liberal arts, with a focus on skills for the corporate sector.
  • The establishment of private universities promises liberal arts education but at a high cost, fostering socio-economic inequality.

Call for Action

• Recognize the importance of libertarian education that prioritizes democratic and inclusive values.
• Philosopher Martha Nussbaum and Henry Giroux stress the need for education beyond market values, fostering critical thinking to counter rising authoritarianism.
• The need for advocacy to preserve and revitalize public universities for their role in creating informed and awakened citizens.