Education System Has Become ‘Marks-Wadi’, Says Pralhad Joshi; Calls for Experiential Learning

Union Education Minister Pralhad Joshi has called for a shift away from an education system dominated by examination scores, arguing that excessive pressure to secure marks can undermine students’ understanding, confidence and individual interests.

Speaking at the inauguration of the Central Board of Secondary Education (CBSE) Experience Centre at the board’s integrated office complex in Dwarka, New Delhi, on October 27, Joshi described the prevailing obsession with examination marks as “marks-wadi”. He urged educators and parents to give greater importance to conceptual understanding and learning through practical experiences.

The minister said students often spend considerable time memorising information and preparing to score well in examinations. According to him, this approach can leave insufficient room for exploring students’ abilities, interests and capacity to apply knowledge in real-life situations.

Joshi linked the need for educational reform to the objectives of the National Education Policy (NEP) 2020, which emphasises experiential and holistic learning.

CBSE Experience Centre to promote practical learning

The newly inaugurated CBSE Experience Centre aims to make learning more interactive by connecting textbook knowledge with demonstrations, technology and real-world applications.

According to the Ministry of Education, the facility covers approximately 6,000 square feet and features 12 zones with 21 exhibits. It presents the evolution of education in India, from traditional learning systems to modern classrooms, digital education and emerging career opportunities.

The centre includes interactive displays on scientific concepts, the history of the Earth and future professions. Dedicated exhibits such as Career Explorer, Future of Professions and Magic Mirror: Future You are designed to help students explore potential career paths.

It also uses RFID-enabled smart cards to let visitors interact with exhibits and access personalised takeaways. Historical displays include archival material tracing the development of CBSE, with records dating back to 1935.

NEP 2020 emphasises experiential and holistic education

The National Education Policy 2020 advocates moving away from rote memorisation towards deeper understanding, critical thinking and learning through practical activities. It recommends hands-on, arts-integrated, sports-integrated and storytelling-based approaches as part of classroom teaching.

Joshi said students should be encouraged to observe scientific phenomena, conduct experiments and understand how concepts work rather than relying solely on textbook explanations. Such approaches can help learners develop curiosity, creativity, independent thinking and problem-solving skills.

The CBSE Experience Centre is intended to support this broader educational approach by offering students opportunities to explore subjects and career possibilities in an interactive environment.

Government plans 50,000 additional Atal Tinkering Labs

Highlighting the importance of innovation and scientific learning, Joshi said that 10,000 Atal Tinkering Labs were operational across India and that the government had decided to establish another 50,000.

These labs are intended to encourage students to experiment with science and technology, develop innovative ideas and strengthen their problem-solving abilities.

The minister also stressed the importance of preparing young people for emerging opportunities in technology, manufacturing and innovation. He said education should equip students with the knowledge, practical skills and values needed to contribute to society and respond to changing workforce requirements.