Mobilization and Involvement of Students and Teachers in Implementing the Adult and Extension Education Programmes at the Grass-Root Level with Special Reference to Bharathidasan University, Tiruchirapalli, India: A Case Study.

Overview & Synopsis

India has made considerable progress toward universal primary education but has the dubious distinction of having the highest illiteracy rates in the world. Stringent endeavors are being made at the national, state, and district levels to eradicate illiteracy through mass approaches and programs. Extension is recognized as the third dimension of higher education, joining teaching and research. The Department of Adult, Continuing Education, and Extension of Bharathidasan University has been involving students and teachers at the grassroots level. The mobilization process starts with selection of the operational area and ends with successful implementation of the adult education and extension program. The stages adopted to mobilize students and teachers are as follows: production and procurement of teaching/learning materials; identification of colleges and allocation of target to a college; selection of college teachers for extension programs; adult education functionary and beneficiary training; integration of extension activities in adult literacy programs; coordination with different agencies; and implementation of these programs: Area Development Program; Post-Literacy and Continuing Education Centers; Mass Program for Functional Literacy; Population Education Clubs; and Total Literacy Campaign. The extension programs have increased literacy rates and awareness of social issues, promoted understanding between students and teachers, and led to research projects. (Contains 33 references) (YLB)