Redefining School Curriculum through the Lens of P. R. Sarkar’s Neo-Humanism
Subhendu Ghosh *
Department of Education, Sri Satya Sai University of Technology & Medical Sciences Indore-Bhopal Road, Sehore, Madhya Pradesh- 466002, India.
Dhiraj Shinde
Department of Education, Sri Satya Sai University of Technology & Medical Sciences Indore-Bhopal Road, Sehore, Madhya Pradesh- 466002, India.
Ratan Sarkar
Department of Teachers' Training (B.Ed.), Prabhat Kumar College, Contai (Affiliated to Vidyasagar University), Karkuli, Contai, Purba Medinipur, West Bengal-721404, India.
*Author to whom correspondence should be addressed.
Abstract
This paper explores the integration of P. R. Sarkar's Neo-Humanism philosophy into school curricula as a transformative approach to education. Neo-Humanism emphasizes holistic development, focusing on intellectual, emotional, social, and spiritual growth beyond traditional academic achievement. The paper discusses key principles of Neo-Humanism in education, including holistic development, universal human values, inclusivity, ecological awareness, and spiritual growth. It outlines strategies for implementing these principles in school curricula, such as integrating value-based education, incorporating emotional and social learning, focusing on sustainability and global citizenship, adopting inclusive education practices, and encouraging ethical reflection. The paper also addresses challenges in implementing Neo-Humanism, including resistance to change, teacher training needs, development of new materials, balancing academic rigor with holistic development, and resource constraints. Despite these challenges, the authors argue that Neo-Humanism offers a crucial framework for preparing students to navigate the complexities of the 21st century, fostering empathy, ethical reasoning, and social responsibility. The paper concludes that adopting Neo-Humanist principles in education can produce well-rounded, morally responsible citizens capable of contributing to social justice, environmental sustainability, and global peace.
Keywords: P. R. Sarkar, neo-humanism, school curriculum, inclusive education, value-based education