Maulana Azad’s Enduring Vision: Architect of India’s Educational Future

by CM Faiz Mohammed

An experienced journalist, drawing upon the insights of educationist CM Faiz Mohammed, Chairman at OneSB and Director of HKBK Institutions, explores the revolutionary and enduring contributions of India’s first Education Minister, Maulana Abul Kalam Azad, on the occasion of National Education Day. Azad’s visionary leadership not only laid the foundation for modern Indian education and cultural institutions but also passionately championed the fundamental principle of universal, inclusive schooling—a dream that continues to inspire and guide reforms today.

The Genesis of a Technical Powerhouse

India’s journey to becoming a global force in technical education is a tribute to the seeds sown by Maulana Azad. He is directly credited with establishing the first Indian Institute of Technology (IIT) in Kharagpur, initiating a revolution that has seen these institutions become the pinnacle of technical aspiration for millions.

“Maulana Azad is credited with planting the seeds for this dream by establishing the first IIT in Kharagpur,” Faiz stated, recognizing the enduring legacy that has made attending an IIT “the dream of every middle-class parent” and propelled these centres of excellence to establish campuses abroad and attract international students. This transformative impact on the nation’s youth and economy underscores the sheer foresight of Azad’s initial investment.

Championing Culture and Higher Learning

Azad’s portfolio extended far beyond technical schools. Despite his position as Education Minister, he demonstrated a profound commitment to preserving and promoting India’s rich cultural and philosophical heritage.

During his tenure, he was instrumental in establishing pivotal institutions that shaped the nation’s academic and cultural landscape:

• University Grants Commission (UGC): Established to regulate and fund the university system across India.
• Indian Council of Cultural Relations (ICCR): Founded to foster global cultural exchange and dialogue.
• National Academies: He spearheaded the creation of the Sangeet Natak Akademi, Sahitya Akademi, and Lalit Kala Akademi to promote and preserve the arts and literature of the subcontinent.

Azad strongly asserted that “India possesses a rich cultural and philosophical heritage comparable to Greece,” advocating tirelessly for its preservation and continued global projection.

Vision for an Inclusive Nation and Compulsory Education

The essence of Maulana Azad’s personality was his unwavering vision to build a truly inclusive nation—a principle that animated his contributions both during the freedom struggle and as Education Minister. His most impactful educational contribution was his relentless advocacy for universal education.

“He is considered the father of the Compulsory Education Act,” Faiz affirmed, highlighting Azad’s successful campaign in the Constituent Assembly for a mandate requiring free education for all children. This profound belief stemmed from a clear conviction about the role of the state.

Azad passionately believed that “while the government could shirk other responsibilities, it should never neglect its duty towards education.” This principle underpins the moral obligation of the state to equip every citizen with knowledge.

The Common Schooling Ideal: A Path to Equity

CM Faiz drew upon his own extensive observations of the education system in England to present a compelling case for educational equity through the Common Schooling System—an idea first passionately advocated by Maulana Azad in India.

Faiz noted a crucial difference abroad, where there is “no significant distinction between government and private schools” based on wealth. He explained that in such a system, virtually “everyone else, regardless of background, income, or parents’ profession, attends government schools.” This mechanism, where all children in a given area attend the same institution, naturally ensures a higher standard and greater accountability for public schools.

“This system, known as the Common Schooling System,” Faiz stressed, “was first advocated for establishing in this country by Abdul Kalam Azad.”

Evolving the Karnataka Public School System

Faiz sees the contemporary Karnataka Public School concept, being established across the state, as a potential vehicle for realizing Azad’s common school vision. He expressed hope that “this public school system will evolve into a common school, reducing the influence of private education.” To achieve this crucial goal, he argued, “To counter private schools, government schools must be equally effective to attract students.” The successful expansion of the Karnataka Public School system is thus seen as a direct alignment with Azad’s educational philosophy.

Honouring the Legacy through Action

Looking to the future, CM Faiz emphasized that honouring Azad’s legacy requires not just commemoration but active reform. Addressing the debate around the medium of instruction, he stressed the importance of nurturing cultural roots: “For Karnataka Public Schools, the speaker stresses the importance of ensuring a Kannada environment, even if English is taught, as a tribute to Azad.”

CM Faiz concluded with a powerful call to action, suggesting that the establishment and successful growth of these public schools “would give meaning to the celebration of National Education Day.” He called for the continued and expanded annual celebration of this day throughout the state to ensure Maulana Abul Kalam Azad’s revolutionary spirit and ideals remain a vibrant source of national inspiration.

❓ Key Q&A on Maulana Azad’s Legacy