Dr. Gedam Kamalakar
Post-Doctoral Fellow ICSSR
Dept. of Political Science
Dr. B. R. Ambedkar Open University
Hyderabad, Telangana (India)
Abstract
Dr. B.R. Ambedkar’s vision for education was deeply rooted in the principles of social justice, equity, and empowerment. His advocacy for inclusive and accessible higher education played a pivotal role in shaping policies that uplift marginalized communities, particularly Dalits and other historically disadvantaged groups. This paper explores Ambedkar’s educational philosophy, emphasizing his belief in education as a tool for social mobility and empowerment. It examines the impact of his ideas on contemporary higher education policies in India, including affirmative action, reservations, and institutional frameworks that promote equitable access. Furthermore, the study highlights challenges that persist in achieving his vision, such as systemic discrimination, dropout rates among marginalized students, and gaps in policy implementation. By critically analyzing Ambedkar’s contributions and their relevance in the current higher education landscape, this paper aims to underscore the need for continued reforms to ensure a truly inclusive and enlightened academic environment. Dr. B. R. Ambedkar, popularly known as Babasaheb Ambedkar, was one of the architects of Indian Constitution. He was a well-known politician and an eminent jurist. Ambedkar’s efforts to eradicate the social evil like untouchability and caste restriction were remarkable. The leader, fought for the right of the dalits and other socially backward classes. He was appointed as the first Law Minister in the Cabinet of Jawaharlal Nehru. He posthumously awarded the BharatRatna, India’s highest civilian honor in 1990. He was a scholar, jurist and a revolutionist. His contribution ranges from educational reforms made by the British Indian Government in the education system from before independence to the post-Independence era. Dr. Babasaheb Ambedkar, the frontier of Dalits emphasized on the need of education. He compared education with the milk of tigress and added that one who will drink it; won’t seat calm.
Keywords: Babasaheb Ambedkar & Ambedkar’s Thoughts, Views of Education & Higher Education.
