Defining The Dire Need Of Developing A Craft Curriculum in Indian Schools

Aishwarya Reddy  
Founder & CEO, Khenshu

As the Founder and Creative Head at Khenshu, Aishwarya and her team continuously work on reinventing classic furniture and decor with a contemporary flair. A global citizen with a background in Industrial Design Engineering and International Business, she recognised her passion and the need for homegrown Indian brands that create products increasing in value over time.

Creative education serves as a gateway to unleashing students’ creative potential from their early years. Through hands-on activities and exploration, it encourages them to think innovatively and envision new horizons. This early exposure to creativity profoundly shapes young minds, guiding them away from conventional career paths and realising their passions and talents at an earlier stage.

 

Coming from a country that is rich in art and heritage, craft is a legacy passed down through generations. However, in today’s fast-paced world, traditional crafts face unprecedented challenges. Many of these skills are in danger of fading away. In this era of complexity, preserving these age-old traditions and nurturing creativity from an early age is vital. This is where integrating craft curriculum into Indian schools plays a crucial role.

 

Craft education isn’t just about making things; it fosters innovation, problem-solving, and an appreciation for the arts. By introducing craft curriculum in schools, we can possibly offer students a platform to explore their creativity and develop essential life skills. From woodworking to pottery, the options are vast, providing students with diverse mediums to express themselves and discover their passions.

 

“Craft education weaves tradition with creativity, empowering our youth to build a future rich with innovation and heritage.”

 

At its heart, craft education promotes experiential learning. Students engage in hands-on activities that stimulate their imagination and critical thinking. Whether designing furniture or crafting pottery, they navigate the iterative ideation, prototyping, and refinement process. These skills extend beyond the classroom, shaping students into adaptable problem-solvers.

Moreover, craft education equips students with practical skills relevant to today’s world. In an era driven by technology, there’s a rising demand for individuals with hands-on abilities and the capacity to create tangible objects. Investing in craft education empowers students with the tools to thrive in a dynamic global economy.

 

Traditional education often focuses on memorization and testing, leaving little room for exploration. Craft curriculum, on the other hand, encourages self-expression and autonomy. Students take charge of their learning journey, delving into areas that resonate with them personally, whether designing furniture or crafting jewellery.

 

In conclusion, integrating craft education into Indian schools is about more than preserving tradition; it’s about nurturing creativity and preparing students for the future. By providing opportunities for hands-on learning and fostering a mindset of innovation, we empower the next generation to thrive in an ever-changing world.