CollegeToU.com Education Blog

Less than a year in the office as Union HRD minister in India, Mr. Kapil Sibal has gained significant attention from students, parents, politicians, education entrepreneurs and media alike. Some hail him as saviour of the Indian education system while others treat him to some foul language. But irrespective of one’s perspective, I believe he would have a lasting impact on the terribly broken Indian education system – good or bad.

So I predict that before the completion of his term as minister in this government, he would pronounce at least 10 major changes (10 commandments) to the education system. We begin this series of 10 commandments:

1 of 10: Thou All Schools in India shall follow common syllabus for Math & Science in 11 & 12 Grades

A bit about my personal background – My father was a central government employee and like many others was subjected to transfers between states every three years. My K12 schooling was spread across 7 schools in 6 different cities which is a lot of fun if you love traveling but not so great when you reach 11th grade because you begin to prepare for professional entrance exams. Each state in India has its own Engineering and Medical entrance exams with its own syllabus. So invariably, as a student you are forced to choose your state before beginning your 11th grade.

Well according to Mr. Kapil Sibal, that may be history as soon as 2011, beginning when all the states have agreed to follow a common syllabus for Math and Science. I believe this is a historic announcement which no other HRD minister has even attempted let alone fail. Come 2011, whether this becomes a reality or faces innumerable implementation hurdles remains to be seen. No longer students have to make career limiting decisions after 10th grade. Students across India will be on equal footing in terms of syllabus and shall be able to attempt any entrance exams across India (if eligible) with confidence.

So let’s all hope that this initiative sees the light of the day.