School should be cool for any age

In a world where technology and (de)globalisation are swiftly upending even the best-laid life plans for young people, lifelong learning could well be the only dependable life jacket. In a welcome move, Delhi University introduced the Competence Enhancement Scheme (CES) that allows individuals of any age to enrol in regular university courses and earn a certificate. Envisioned under National Education Policy (NEP) 2020, the scheme started small in 2023, but is steadily gaining traction. Up to 10% of seats in each course are now open to CES learners.

Globally, of course, this is a well-established practice. The US offers a wide range of entry points for adults returning to education, with community colleges playing a central role. In Britain, the Access to Higher Education Diplomas programme is designed for adults returning to study without traditional qualifications. Sweden has long embraced education at all stages of life. Its Komvux system enables adults to re-enter secondary or higher education regardless of age, or how long they've been out of school. Brazil offers similar flexibility. Its Educacao de Jovens e Adultos (EJA) programme helps adults re-engage with literacy, primary and secondary education, often as a pathway to higher studies.

These countries are at different points on the spectrum of providing lifelong learning to their citizens. But they share one growing recognition: education shouldn't be a one-shot deal. For India, this mindset is especially important now. As the silver economy grows, and tech and globalisation constantly change job requirements, people need to reskill and upskill continuously. That means education systems must be flexible not just in what they teach, but also when they allow people to learn.