Law not enough, more to be done for educating children: Prez

Not just enacting laws, more needs to be done to educate less fortunate children and for creating the right kind of infrastructure for their education, President Pranab Mukherjee said today.
Addressing a function here, he said government's efforts alone are not enough to bring about a change in this system of education and it has to be complemented by initiatives from the private sector and voluntary organisations.
"In India, we have enacted laws granting children the right to compulsory education up to the age of 14. Yet, a lot of work is still required on the ground in terms of covering the less fortunate children and creating the right kind of infrastructure for their education," said Mukherjee.

The President said teachers have to play a pivotal role in creating a holistic education system.
"A sound education system is the cornerstone for sustainable development resulting in lasting peace and harmony in society. Educated minds have the capacity to analyse information and sift the right from the wrong," he said.
Mukherjee said education is the true alchemy that can bring India to its next golden age.

"A pool of competent and motivated teachers, through their collective efforts, can create a society of strong minds and courageous hearts," the President said after presenting 'Malti Gyan Peeth Puraskar' for the year 2016 to 15 teachers at a function held at Rashtrapati Bhavan here.

He said schools have the onerous task of laying the foundation of the next generation of scientists, engineers, doctors, policy-makers, academicians and civil servants.
"A sound school system is possible only with teachers of good quality devoted to the profession. Teachers have to ensure that educational processes no longer remain confined to the classroom-based education," Mukherjee said.