Chatra Asantosh Kyo

Here's a comprehensive summary of the Jain text "Chatra Asantosh Kyo" by B.P. Joshi, based on the provided PDF content:

Book Title: Chatra Asantosh Kyo (Why Student Dissatisfaction?) Author: B.P. Joshi (Former Director, State Science Teaching Institute, Udaipur) Publisher: Z_Kesarimalji_Surana_Abhinandan_Granth_012044.pdf Catalog Link: https://jainqq.org/explore/210495/1

Summary:

The text "Chatra Asantosh Kyo" by B.P. Joshi addresses the pervasive issue of student dissatisfaction and unrest prevalent across all levels of educational institutions in India, from secondary schools to universities and vocational colleges. The author notes that such student movements have become commonplace, and despite efforts by educationists, policymakers, and intellectuals, no satisfactory solutions have been found to quell this discontent.

Joshi highlights that student dissatisfaction has reached a point where young people seem to derive a sense of prestige from causing disturbances, disrupting normalcy, and engaging in unethical and immoral behavior towards their elders. This unrest has grown so severe that it has led to instances of intimidation of invigilators during exams, looting of shopkeepers, vandalism of shops and cinema halls, disrespectful behavior towards teachers, and the forceful confinement of university vice-chancellors and other authorities.

While many thinkers have offered their perspectives, the author points out the prevalent view that students should not be solely blamed for these agitations. Instead, the underlying causes are deeply rooted in the nation's social, political, economic, moral, and cultural circumstances. The Indian student world is described as being in a state of intense distress and restlessness, with widespread indiscipline becoming a law and order problem.

The consequences of this student unrest are dire. The author laments the decline in culture, nobility, and good manners, suggesting that restoring these lost values could take more than a generation. Significant study hours are lost, and more importantly, the habit of focused, hard work is eroded. The development of a reckless, mischievous, and destructive mindset among students is a cause for serious concern, with unpredictable future consequences. Students are shown destroying public property, oblivious to their own future reliance on these assets and their eventual responsibility to protect them. This destructive behavior is seen as indicative of dangerous psychological tendencies.

Joshi argues that suppressing such unrest through force only provides a temporary solution, with the possibility of a more explosive resurgence when favorable conditions arise. Therefore, a thorough understanding of the causes through study and research is paramount before implementing any remedial programs.

Key Reasons for Student Dissatisfaction Identified by the Author:

1. Inadequacy of the Current Education System: The present education system fails to meet its proposed objectives and does not equip students with the necessary vocational skills for employment after graduation. Consequently, students feel incapable of solving their problems post-education. The primary goal of education has devolved into merely passing examinations.
2. Focus on Employment: The former Education Minister of Rajasthan, Shri Shiv Charan Mathur, is quoted stating that the current education system only motivates students to seek employment. Students are molded into "cogs in the government machinery" rather than being developed as individuals.
3. Need for Character Development: Greater emphasis should be placed on the development of students' character, as society is ultimately built by individuals. Shri Gurudutt's view is cited, suggesting the abolition of degrees, diplomas, and certificates and the complete removal of government interference in education.
4. Defective Teaching Methods: The current teaching methodologies are flawed. The lack of subject-specialist teachers leads to a lack of student interest, resulting in poor outcomes. Improvements in this area are crucial.
5. Lack of Purpose and Future Planning: The current education system fails to instill a clear purpose in students' lives, hindering their ability to plan their futures effectively.
6. Widespread Unemployment: The increase in unemployment necessitates a greater promotion of vocational education for job acquisition.
7. Economic Hardships: Extreme economic difficulties create uncertainty about the future financial landscape. Many students come from economically disadvantaged families who cannot afford higher education.
8. Increase in Student Numbers and Societal Changes: A significant increase in student numbers and considerable changes in sociology and the constitution have made it difficult for teachers to maintain personal contact with students, leading to a decline in essential teacher-student interaction.
9. Poor Teaching Methods in Colleges and Universities: Teaching methods in colleges and universities are in disarray, failing to generate curiosity or employ scientific approaches. This leads to disengagement in class and a lack of respect for most teachers.
10. Unqualified and Disinterested Teachers: Many teachers in schools, colleges, and universities are unqualified and lack interest in their profession. The author reiterates that the purpose of education is not merely exam preparation but the harmonious development of the whole personality.
11. Examination-Centric System: The examination system has become the sole focus, with teaching processes being indirectly based on it.

The author concludes by stating that the government must provide necessary support to various educational centers and all relevant societal units to initiate appropriate programs. He emphasizes that everyone in society must fulfill their duties to address student dissatisfaction.

The text also briefly mentions the contributions of "Karmayogi Shri Keserimalji Surana" in the field of education, particularly his efforts to bring satisfaction to students in Ranawas, aligning with Lord Mahavir's principles for holistic development. His life is described as that of a dedicated social worker, and the educational facilities he established from primary to college levels are highlighted as symbols of his determination. The upcoming "Abhinandan Granth" (felicitation volume) for Shri Surana is presented as a potentially valuable resource.

Finally, the text includes a Jain scripture quote (Dashavaikalik 8/30) emphasizing humility and the avoidance of pride based on knowledge, lineage, or asceticism: "A wise person should not despise anyone, nor praise themselves; they should not be proud of their scriptural knowledge, lineage, or asceticism." This serves as a moral compass for both students and educators in addressing the problem.