NEP 2020: Teacher’s play a pivotal role in implementation
By: Imran Raina
Teachers, as guides and mentors, not only impart knowledge but also instil values, resilience, and a sense of citizenship in students. By implementing NEP 2020 effectively, teachers help shape responsible, skilled, and adaptable individuals, contributing to a more equitable and progressive society.
A teacher does not teach a subject; instead, they ignite curiosity and a love for learning. NEP 2020 encourages a shift away from rote memorization, and it is teachers who bring about the change.
The National Education Policy (NEP) 2020 places significant emphasis on the socio-emotional and ethical development of students, recognizing these as essential components of holistic education alongside intellectual, physical, and aesthetic growth. The policy envisions nurturing not just academic proficiency, but also emotional intelligence, ethical reasoning, and social awareness to prepare students for life and responsible citizenship.
Socio-emotional development, as outlined in NEP 2020, refers to the cultivation of emotional competence, self-awareness, empathy, relationship skills, and the ability to manage emotions and interact positively with others.
Ethical development involves instilling values such as integrity, responsibility, justice, and respect for diversity, enabling students to make morally sound decisions and act with social responsibility
The National Education Policy (NEP) 2020 marks a transformative shift in education landscape, aiming to foster holistic, flexible, and multidisciplinary learning. At the heart of this ambitious reform are teachers, recognized as the principal agents of change who bridge policy and practice in the classroom.
The NEP 2020 envisions teachers as the cornerstone of educational reform in India. Their role extends beyond instruction—they are facilitators, innovators, and role models who will determine the policy’s ultimate success. By embracing new pedagogies, integrating technology, and fostering holistic development, teachers will lead the way in transforming Indian education for future generations
NEP 2020 moves away from rote learning, emphasizing the integration of arts, sciences, and vocational subjects. Teachers are expected to design lessons that encourage critical thinking, creativity, and problem-solving, nurturing students into well-rounded individuals.
This includes developing socio-emotional skills, ethical reasoning, and communication abilities alongside academic content. The policy advocates for experiential, project-based, and inquiry-driven learning. Teachers must create engaging, real-world learning experiences, making education relevant and practical. This shift requires teachers to move beyond traditional lectures and foster environments where students learn by doing, questioning, and collaborating.
Teachers foster socio-emotional growth by developing trusting, supportive relationships with students. Active listening, empathy, and understanding are essential—acknowledging students’ feelings, validating their experiences, and providing constructive feedback all contribute to a positive classroom climate.
Teachers can weave Socio-Emotional Learning into academic lessons through activities that foster self-awareness, social awareness, relationship skills, and ethical decision-making. For example, group projects, role-playing scenarios, and discussions about emotions and values help students practice empathy and cooperation in real-life contexts.
Teachers should provide opportunities for students to talk about their feelings, frustrations, and successes. Activities like journaling, reflective exercises, and open discussions allow students to process emotions and develop coping strategies.
Also collaboration with parents and the wider community ensures consistent support for students’ socio-emotional and ethical development. Regular communication and shared activities between school and home reinforce the values taught in the classroom.
By intentionally integrating these strategies, teachers play a pivotal role in shaping students into emotionally intelligent, empathetic, and ethically responsible individuals prepared for the challenges of life beyond school.
Teachers who demonstrate empathy, self-awareness, and respectful communication serve as role models for students. By observing teachers’ positive behaviors—such as managing emotions, resolving conflicts constructively, and showing respect for diverse perspectives—students learn to replicate these skills in their own interactions.
Furthermore Strong, positive relationships between teachers and students foster trust, safety, and mutual respect. These relationships encourage students to express themselves, take academic risks, and seek help when needed, all of which are essential for developing self-worth, resilience, and emotional regulation.
By intentionally integrating these strategies, teachers play a pivotal role in shaping students into emotionally intelligent, empathetic, and ethically responsible individuals prepared for the challenges of life beyond school.
(The author is a Teacher and hails from Kangan Ganderbal. He is a regular contributor to ‘Kashmir Vision’)
