Why Childhood Education Needs Soft Skills More Than Academics?

On August 9th, the brutal murder of a doctor trainee in Kolkata sent shockwaves across the country. While the family awaits justice, another heart-wrenching incident occurred—a 7-year-old child was raped. These horrific events are a stark reminder of the deep-rooted issues in our society.They highlight a critical gap in our education system: the lack of emphasis on soft skills and emotional intelligence from a young age.

 The Forgotten Aspect of Early Education In many countries, including ours, early childhood education primarily focuses on academics. Parents eagerly wait to hear if their child can write a letter or recite the alphabet. But what about the child who shows signs of aggressiveness, unhappiness, or extreme quietness? The repercussions of this oversight can be severe, as seen in the rising cases of violence and aggression among youth. 

 The Delayed Realization: Soft Skills in Higher Education The importance of soft skills is often acknowledged too late in life, usually during placement assistance for freshers or performance reviews in the corporate world. By this stage, correcting ingrained patterns of behavior is not only challenging but also often met with resistance. The Stigma Surrounding Counselling: Despite being educated, many of us avoid counseling, associating it with mental illness. This stigma prevents people from seeking help, perpetuating a cycle of unaddressed emotional and social issues. 

 The Need for Early Intervention: A Call to Action It is crucial for parents, especially those raising male children, to understand the importance of social and soft skills. Teaching boys empathy, respect, and emotional regulation from a young age can prevent the development of toxic behaviors that often lead to violence. Academic institutions must also step up, integrating soft skills into the curriculum from early education through high school.

 Addressing the Root Cause: One march, protest, or case resolution is not enough to create lasting change. We must adress the lack of early education in soft skills. By focusing on emotional and social development from a young age, we can nurture a generation. It's time to rethink our approach to education, prioritizing soft skills as essential for a better, safer society.