Exclusive Children’s Day Interview: Education Has Transformed Over Two Decades, Says Dr. Rakesh Singh

On the occasion of Children’s Day, Edinbox had a special conversation with Dr. Rakesh Singh, an experienced and thoughtful educator in the field of education. With over two decades in teaching, Dr. Singh has not only closely observed the ways children learn but has also deeply understood the changes that have evolved over time. In this interview, he shared his insights on the modern education system, the impact of technology, the importance of curiosity and emotional intelligence. He believes that education today should not be limited to just marks but should focus on developing children’s ability to think, question, and learn by connecting with life.

1. What is the biggest change you have observed in how students learn and think over the past two decades?

A teacher today must play a role beyond being just a source of knowledge; they need to be a companion in the learning journey. Their job is no longer just to “teach” but to assist students in “thinking and connecting.” If teachers create a learning environment by understanding students’ experiences, digital spaces, and emotions, they will always remain relevant because no technology can replace the human touch.

2. Has technology truly empowered today’s students or caused more distractions?

Technology has definitely empowered students in new ways but also posed challenges. Its impact depends on how teachers guide its use. Technology supports thinking development when students engage constructively, interactively, and critically, rather than becoming mere consumers.

3. If you could bring back one aspect of the old education system, what would it be and why?

I would bring back the culture of "slow but deep and natural learning." Earlier, learning involved time, reflection, and practice. Today’s fast-paced system focuses on "results," not the "process." Deep learning happens when children have the freedom to make mistakes, think, and experience personally.

4. What is the biggest secret to keeping children’s curiosity alive?

The secret is giving children permission to ask questions. When we say, “That’s a good question, let’s explore it together,” it ignites the flame of learning. Curiosity thrives when teachers let students explore, imagine, and think before providing answers.

5. How has the definition of a "good student" changed from when you started teaching to today?

Earlier, a "good student" was disciplined, responsible, and scored well. Today, a good student understands, shares, connects with society, and creates something new. The modern good student is not just a "book expert" but a "life explorer" somewhat like a startup founder who has creativity and innovation running in the veins.

6. Do you think India’s schools and classrooms are evolving fast enough with global change?

Positive changes like child-centered learning and inclusive education are happening in many schools. But this change is uneven, with resource gaps between schools. Urban schools move faster, while rural and government schools still need structural and mindset shifts. Schools must shift from "curriculum-centered" to "life-centered" education.

7. How can teachers stay relevant when students learn more online and less offline?

Teachers must become learning companions rather than mere knowledge sources. Their role is to support thinking and connecting ideas. If teachers create learning environments understanding students’ experiences, digital spaces, and emotions, they will remain relevant because human connection cannot be replaced by technology. However, using AI cautiously is vital to preserve critical thinking.

8. Is emotional intelligence more important than academic intelligence for students’ success today?

Definitely. Success today depends not just on "what you know" but on "how you behave and feel." Emotional intelligence makes children sensitive, empathetic, and cooperative citizens. Academic intelligence may get you a job, but emotional intelligence connects you with humanity.

9. What can parents and teachers do today to encourage curiosity instead of competition in children?

We must cultivate a culture of dialogue, not comparison. Ask children, “What new did you see or learn today?” instead of “What marks did you get?” Encouraging children to ask questions, fail, and try again naturally fosters curiosity.

10. How would you describe the ideal classroom of the future?

The ideal classroom of the future will have no walls but open spaces for free-flowing ideas. Children will learn at their own pace, engage in group thinking, and use technology as a tool for creation not just for entertainment or as a shortcut for thinking. Teachers will act as guides, co-learners, and motivators. Both teaching and learning will happen side by side, in parallel journeys. In such a classroom, education will not just prepare students for the future, but celebrate life itself, teaching them how to observe, live, and learn from it.

Since Children’s Day makes us consider what the future of education might become, the thoughts of Dr. Rakesh Singh provide us with a certain appeal: it is necessary to develop the curiosity, empathy and holistic thinking to form the learners of the future. This intellectual discourse by a long time educator offers a relevant guide on how to help children in a fast evolving world not only in their studies but in other ways