Non-performing institutions

Talking about the possibilities of Global recession in economy, one of the concerns expressed was on the “Non-performing loans” advanced by financial institutions including banks..As an educator, I was just extrapolating this idea to the “Non-performing institutions” in the field of education both at the school and collegiate levels. It is indeed an important concern.

Imagine the amount of Governmental investments in the education sector both at the formal systems and non-formal systems and examine the productivity we have been getting. It may be satisfying to play with numbers at the Boards and the university levels to show the number of ‘qualified’ turnouts blessed with a certificate or a degree.. and their total inability to demonstrate an equitable level of performance either in the form of knowledge or skills.. Many instutions do pat their back with records of ‘excellence’ or records of ‘campus selections’ as proof enough for their outstanding performances. But their advocacies and advertisements appear quite questionable!

At the institutions run by the Government or subsidized by them, there is very poor accountability.. in many places there are no evidences of any quality or reflection of relevant basic skills appropriate to the qualifications.  How do we account for the ‘non-performing’ institutions? Are these investments just non-performing and will continue as an essential burden on the economy and the taxpayers goodwill?

It is time that some basic accountability is established in these non-performing institutions.. Beyond the data of results.. We need a paradigm shift in our approach to education at all levels.. !