Subjects I wish are taught in schools to have a strong foundation in young minds. These should be free of religion and ideology. These are not to supercede existing subjects but to enhance learning and enable students to learn more and become better in more complete manner and not just academics.
- Respect. Students should be taught to respect oneself , their parents/family , their nation and its culture, language, etc. Having respect for oneself changes the way they look at themselves and improve the way they treat themself and lead to better cleanliness, nutrition and more. . A person who respects education will change the way they look at it and likewise their career and everything else.. Punctuality will be an aspect of this
- Empathy is an important quality to be taught to all students. In Denmark, it is taught as a subject in schools and I feel it should be taught to all students in India and the world. It used to be something that was required of me as an IT Professional to understand customer requirements but I realised it is required of everyone to understand others better. Not only other people but also other beings and even stray dogs. This is a quality that helps one to become a better human being and is required not only for careers but also everyday life. Empathy coupled with respect makes a huge improvement .
- Agriculture – this should include rainwater harvesting and other related aspects. Most schools have limited space and this can be a hidden benefit as children can learn about farming in limited spaces like growing indoor, balcony plants and rainwater harvesting and its importance can be taught. Children will learn more about the challenges faced by farmers, climatic issues, irrigation, hydroponics and other advanced topics. Any products grown at school(fruits,vegetables, flowers) can be sold at carnivals and will be a learning experience
- Business – school carnivals can be great experience for children as they can learn about marketing, advertising, accounting and more in a practical manner and teachers can give guidance also in a practical manner rather than a bookish one.
- Basic accounting will include taking note of expenses and income, basic savings and investment. Banking. . These are necessary for life and career and will help all
- Simple repairs around the house – fixing small items like flashlights etc . The aim is to get children to form the habit of fixing things rather than buy new stuff to replace items not working properly like a faulty flashlight, some toy or radio. Children should learn the importance of maintenance of any item and recycling, cleaning, polishing . Children could be encouraged to bring faulty items to get them fixed or unwanted toys to be given away or exchanged and more The idea is to introduce a mentality of fixing things rather than simply use and throw. They can experience the joy of sharing. Children can be encouraged to exchange or give away stuff they are no longer using or have outgrown. . Children can learn about cleaning and maintenance around the house Including painting and plumbing
- Basic cooking. Children can learn basic cooking and preparation like cooking rice. Making tea, cutting and preparing vegetables etc. The idea is to inculcate the habit of helping cooking tasks and appreciate the cooking process and how taste is arrived at.
- Basic sewing – Children can learn basic needlework and how clothes are stitched. They can try designing clothes too. The children can take up the responsibility of maintenance of clothing and appreciate the use of clothing even old and not expect new clothing for small repairs
- Vocal Communication – public speaking can be encouraged by conducting debates, extempore speeches and this can help build confidence and enhance speech when in interpersonal speaking too.
- Writing skills – This is by way of writing articles and written competitions will be helpful to improve skills and confidence in the future and prepare for higher studies and a career .
- Traffic rules – This is for preparing children from a young age to be aware of and respect traffic rules and learn about better driving while appreciate the need for following traffic rules.
- First Aid. Children should learn this in order to perform basic aid during emergency and handle situations before rushing to the hospital. This should kindle health consciousness and hygiene at an early age. They will learn the dos and don’ts when they encounter a person getting injured or falling sick. Children should be taught emergency procedures like CPR, Heimlich Maneuver and others
These subjects are not only intended to guide students but also make them aware of career choices and appreciate the work of others.