CBSE Poised to Become an International Board, Says Union Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan

Union Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan has expressed that the Central Board of Secondary Education (CBSE) has the potential to become an international board, particularly in the Global South, given its popularity in the region. He mentioned that CBSE schools in Singapore and Japan have garnered significant interest, with their teaching methods, particularly in mathematics, being highly sought after. Pradhan stated that the plan to establish CBSE as an international board had lost momentum in the past but is now gaining traction.

In addition, Pradhan informed reporters at the G20 4th Working Group Meeting for education that the University Grants Commission (UGC) is in the process of finalizing norms to allow foreign universities to establish campuses in India, aligning with the National Education Policy (NEP). He hinted at forthcoming announcements regarding Indian universities opening campuses abroad.

Pradhan emphasized that India’s NEP is receiving close attention globally and could serve as a model for emerging economies. He praised the policy’s emphasis on experiential learning, which fosters a new generation of entrepreneurs. The Minister also highlighted the integration of technology-based interventions to assist students preparing for competitive examinations such as IITJEE and NEET.

Regarding budgetary allocation for education, Pradhan acknowledged that India currently spends 4% of its GDP on education, falling short of the NEP’s target of 6%. He acknowledged the constraints of resources but reaffirmed the government’s commitment to increasing funding for education.