GAP BODHI TARU
A GLOBAL JOURNAL OF HUMANITIES
( ISSN – 2581-5857 )
Impact Factor: SJIF - 5.551, IIFS - 5.125
Globally peer-reviewed and open access journal.
AN OVERVIEW OF DR B.R AMBEDKAR’S EDUCATIONAL
PHILOSOPHY AND VISION
Ms. Prachi Patade
Assistant Professor,
[email protected],
Thakur Ramnarayan College of Arts and Commerce
Abstract
Dr. B.R. Ambedkar, an eminent Indian jurist, economist, politician, and social reformer, is well-known for his
numerous contributions to social justice, equality, and empowerment, particularly among marginalised
communities. Among his many successes, his educational philosophy and vision serve as important foundations in
his quest for societal improvement. According to him, all educational institutions should act as catalysts for social
transformation. Dr. Ambedkar thought that society should prioritise education in order to produce morally
upright persons.
The purpose of this study is to investigate Dr. B.R. Ambedkar's contributions to philosophy and education.
Ambedkar has always believed that education is essential for the regeneration of society based on the principles of
justice and equality. "A man who is educated is fearless," he went on to say. He also believed that education makes
him aware of his rights, instil a sense of community, and motivates him to fight for them. It is pointless if it fails to
achieve its aims. He worked tirelessly to ensure that every Indian citizen may obtain an education. He was
correct when he said, "It is the education which is the right weapon to cut social slavery and it is the education
which will enlighten the down-trodden masses to come up and gain social status, economic betterment and
political freedom." This clearly highlights the critical role of education in a country's development. Dr. Ambedkar's
educational philosophy was based on the belief that "education is something which ought to be brought within the
reach of everyone."
Keywords: Empowerment, Societal Improvement, Philosophy, Education, Political Freedom
LIFE SKETCH OF DR B R AMBEDKAR
Dr. Bhimrao Ramji Ambedkar, often known as Dr. B. R. Ambedkar had a remarkable life filled with hardships,
accomplishments, and substantial contributions to Indian society. Born on April 14, 1891, in the town of Mhow,
Madhya Pradesh, India, he was born into a Dalit family, traditionally called as "untouchables," and experienced
social discrimination and suffering from a young age. Despite enormous hurdles, Ambedkar remained
committed to pursue education. He succeeded intellectually, earning scholarships to study overseas. He
graduated from Bombay University with a degree in Economics and Political Science before continuing his
education in the United States and England. He holds a master's degree from Columbia University and a
doctorate from the London School of Economics. Ambedkar's experiences with caste-based discrimination
shaped his worldview and spurred his dedication to social reform. He became a strong advocate for the rights
of Dalits and other marginalised groups in India. He opposed the caste system and advocated for social
equality, justice, and the empowerment of the underprivileged. He played a pivotal role in drafting the Indian
Constitution, which was adopted on January 26, 1950. The Constitution enshrined principles of equality,
liberty, and fraternity and included provisions for affirmative action to address historical injustices. He also
worked relentlessly to promote education and economic emancipation for Dalits. He founded several
educational organisations, including the People's Education Society, and fought for land reforms to alleviate
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poverty among marginalised groups. Throughout his life, Ambedkar encountered opposition and criticism from
numerous sources. His persistent devotion to social justice, as well as his vision of an equal society, elevated
him to the ranks of Indian history's most prominent individuals. He died on December 6, 1956, but his thoughts
and aspirations continue to motivate movements for social reform and equality in India and elsewhere.
VISION OF EDUCATION BY DR BR AMBEDKAR
Dr. B. R. Ambedkar's vision for education was defined by a never-ending pursuit of equality, social justice, and
empowerment. He felt that education might revolutionise society and empower marginalised populations,
notably Dalits. Ambedkar emphasised equal access to education for all people, regardless of caste, creed, or
socioeconomic background. Ambedkar's educational vision aims to propagate enlightened ideas among the
people in order to rebuild society on the values of liberty, equality, fraternity, and justice. In the words of
Ambedkar, "Education is a weapon of creation of mental and educational development, a weapon of eradication
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April – June 2024
GAP BODHI TARU
A GLOBAL JOURNAL OF HUMANITIES
( ISSN – 2581-5857 )
Impact Factor: SJIF - 5.551, IIFS - 5.125
Globally peer-reviewed and open access journal.
of social slavery of economic development of political freedom" . The major element of his educational
philosophy is to instil the ideas of liberty, equality, fraternity, justice, and moral integrity in peoples of all
backgrounds. Ambedkar was not only the man of age and the builder of the structure, but also the founder of a
new social order for the benefit of the oppressed. Ambedkar understands that education is a prerequisite for
the reconstruction of society on the ideals of liberty, equality, and brotherhood. He considered education not
just as a method of acquiring knowledge, but also as a tool for combating societal inequities and prejudice.
Furthermore, he emphasised the value of higher education in preparing people to be leaders and change agents
in their communities. Overall, Dr. B. R. Ambedkar's vision for education continues to motivate efforts to provide
comprehensive and fair educational opportunities for all people, in keeping with his values of social justice and
empowerment.
FIVE KEY PRINCIPLES EMPHASISED BY DR. B. R. AMBEDKAR
Be Educated: Ambedkar placed a high value on education. He was convinced that education was the route to
freedom from social and economic oppression. Ambedkar himself exemplified education's transformational
effect, rising from terrible poverty and discrimination to become one of the most educated people of his time.
He argued for universal access to education, particularly for marginalised groups like Dalits, as a way of
empowerment and social upliftment.
Be Agitated: Ambedkar understood the importance of agitation or activism in confronting repressive regimes
and creating change. He encouraged people, particularly those from marginalised communities, to use
nonviolent protest and activity to express their rights and demand justice. Ambedkar led various initiatives and
campaigns against caste-based discrimination and inequality, employing agitation to increase awareness and
mobilise support for social reforms.
Be Agitated: Ambedkar recognised the role of agitation or activism in challenging oppressive governments and
effecting change. He encouraged individuals, particularly those from marginalised areas, to utilise nonviolent
protest and action to assert their rights and demand justice. Ambedkar spearheaded several projects and
campaigns against caste-based injustice and unfairness, using agitation to raise awareness and generate
support for social changes.
Be Confident: Confidence was another factor that Ambedkar emphasised as critical to individual and societal
development. He inspired marginalised communities to believe in their own strengths and worth, despite the
widespread persecution they experienced. Ambedkar held that self-confidence was essential for opposing
oppression and establishing one's rights in society.
Never Give Up: Ambedkar respected persistence and resilience. Despite countless hurdles and setbacks
throughout his life, he remained committed to social justice and equality. Ambedkar's dedication and
perseverance in the face of adversity have inspired innumerable people who are fighting injustice and
oppression. This principle emphasises the value of endurance in the pursuit of social change and liberty.
EDUCATIONAL VISION BY DR B.R AMBEDKAR
Dr. B. R. Ambedkar's concept of education was founded on the goal of social justice, equality, and
empowerment. As a strong supporter of the rights of marginalised populations, notably Dalits, Ambedkar saw
education as a potent tool for liberation from the repressive caste system. His worldview emphasised universal
access to education, regardless of caste, gender, or socioeconomic background, and he advocated for the
elimination of barriers that prevented marginalised people from pursuing knowledge. Ambedkar felt that
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education had the potential to transform societal structures by opposing discriminatory practices and
promoting a more inclusive and egalitarian society. He advocated for a curriculum that encouraged critical
thinking, rationalism, and ethical leadership while instilling students with a sense of social duty. Furthermore,
Ambedkar supported affirmative action policies such as reservations in educational institutions, seeing them as
necessary steps towards addressing historical injustices and promoting social inclusion. Overall, Dr. B. R.
Ambedkar's vision of education continues to motivate attempts to create inclusive and equitable educational
institutions that maintain the concepts of justice, dignity, and empowerment for all people.
Philosophical Foundation
Dr. B. R. Ambedkar's philosophical foundations were deeply rooted in the principles of social justice, equality,
and human dignity. As a prominent advocate for the rights of marginalised communities, particularly Dalits,
Ambedkar drew upon various philosophical traditions to articulate his vision for a more just and equitable
society. He rejected the hierarchical and oppressive caste system of Hinduism, advocating instead for a society
based on principles of equality and meritocracy.
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GAP BODHI TARU
A GLOBAL JOURNAL OF HUMANITIES
( ISSN – 2581-5857 )
Impact Factor: SJIF - 5.551, IIFS - 5.125
Globally peer-reviewed and open access journal.
Dr. B. R. Ambedkar's educational initiatives and advocacy
Dr. B. R. Ambedkar's educational initiatives and advocacy were central to his mission of empowering
marginalised communities, particularly Dalits, through education. Recognizing education as a powerful vehicle
for social reform, Ambedkar fought diligently to extend educational possibilities and confront the caste-based
inequality that pervades Indian society. Ambedkar also pushed for affirmative action programs, such as
reservations in educational institutions and government jobs, to correct historical injustices and promote social
inclusion. His efforts were intended not just at providing access to education for people from marginalised
backgrounds, but also at empowering them to resist repressive social institutions and claim their rights.
Ambedkar's legacy in educational projects and activism continues to inspire movements for educational reform
and social justice, acting as a light of hope for oppressed people seeking equal opportunities and dignity.
Educational Institutions founded by DR Ambedkar
One of his most prominent institutions is the People's Education Society (PES), which he created in 1945 in
Bombay (now Mumbai). The PES sought to provide educational opportunities for pupils from impoverished
homes, regardless of caste or creed. Under Ambedkar's leadership, the PES created schools, colleges, and
hostels to provide academic and vocational courses to students who had previously been denied educational
opportunities owing to societal discrimination. Another major institution built by Ambedkar is the Siddharth
College of Arts and Science in Bombay, established in 1946.Ambedkar also formed the People's Improvement
Trust in 1945, which constructed the Siddharth Law College in Bombay to provide legal education to aspiring
lawyers from marginalised areas. On June 14, 1928, he established the Depressed Classes Education Society in
Bombay, also known as Dalit Education Society in Marathi. He established hostels in Panvel, Thane, Nasik,
Pune, and Dharwad for Dalit high school students, promoting education among untouchables.A number of
educational establishments were soon established under the support of PES, including the Milind
Mahavidyalaya in Aurangabad in 1950, the Siddharth Night School in 1947, the Siddharth College of Commerce
and Economics in 1953, the Milind Multipurpose High School in 1955, and the Siddharth College of Law in
1956. Ambedkar established the "Bahishkrit Hitakarini Sabha" on July 20, 1924.These educational institutions,
founded by Dr. B. R. Ambedkar, continues to serve as symbols of his commitment to social justice and
empowerment through education, allowing generations of students from marginalised backgrounds to reach
their full potential and contribute to the country's progress.
Roots in Social Justice
Dr. Bhimrao Ramji Ambedkar, a prominent figure in India's struggle for social justice, was deeply influenced by
his experiences as a member of the Dalit community. He became the chief architect of the Indian Constitution, a
testament to his commitment to eradicating caste-based discrimination and advocating for the rights and
upliftment of the oppressed. Ambedkar's educational philosophy was deeply rooted in his experiences with
caste-based discrimination and systemic injustices in Indian society. He believed that education could liberate
marginalized sections of society from caste oppression by allowing them to critically engage with their socio-
political reality and fight for their rights and dignity. Ambedkar's advocacy for educational reforms aimed at
dismantling caste-based discrimination within educational institutions and promoting social inclusion remains
a cornerstone of his legacy. His writings, speeches, and activism challenged the entrenched caste hierarchy,
envisioning an educational system that nurtured equality, social justice, and human dignity for all.
International Perspectives
Dr. B.R. Ambedkar's commitment to learning from diverse sources and applying these insights to India's
struggle for social justice and equality is evident in his engagement with international educational movements
and thinkers. Despite being deeply rooted in the Indian socio-political landscape, Ambedkar's international
perspective was pragmatic, seeking inspiration from oppressed communities worldwide. He exposed him to
various ideologies and methodologies, including John Dewey's progressive educational theories and Paulo
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Freire's liberation pedagogy. These encounters broadened his understanding of education as a tool for
emancipation and societal transformation. Ambedkar actively sought to internationalise the discourse on caste
oppression and social justice, collaborating with scholars and activists worldwide to highlight the universality
of the struggle against discrimination. His ideas on democratisation of education, affirmative action, and the
recognition of social identities as integral to educational equity resonated with movements for civil rights and
social justice worldwide. Ambedkar's legacy continues to inspire scholars and activists worldwide,
demonstrating the enduring relevance of his internationalist vision in the pursuit of a more just and inclusive
society.
Legacy and Contemporary relevance
Dr. B.R. Ambedkar's legacy in education is profound and multifaceted. His advocacy for equal access to
education, particularly for marginalised communities, has significantly influenced educational policies in India
and beyond. His ideas have led to the inclusion of affirmative action measures, such as reservations for
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Impact Factor: SJIF - 5.551, IIFS - 5.125
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Scheduled Castes, Scheduled Tribes, and Other Backward Classes, in educational institutions and government
employment. His emphasis on critical thinking, rationality, and individual agency has shaped educational
practices, inspiring educators to prioritise holistic development and empowerment over rote learning.
Ambedkar's educational philosophy continues to resonate in contemporary debates on education and social
equity, providing a framework for addressing persistent inequities in access, quality, and outcomes. His vision
of education as a means of liberation and empowerment remains relevant in the face of ongoing challenges
such as caste-based discrimination, unequal distribution of educational resources, and commodification of
education.
Access to education
Dr. Bhimrao Ramji Ambedkar was a prominent advocate for equal access to education, recognizing it as a key to
social emancipation and empowerment. He worked tirelessly to break down barriers faced by marginalised
communities, particularly Dalits and women, in accessing quality education. Ambedkar established schools
tailored to Dalit children, providing a nurturing environment free from caste-based discrimination. He also
initiated scholarship programs to enable economically disadvantaged students from marginalised backgrounds
to pursue higher education. His advocacy extended beyond formal schooling, promoting literacy and awareness
through social and cultural initiatives. His vision was to create a conducive environment for intellectual growth
and empowerment. Dr. Ambedkar's tireless efforts aimed to dismantle systemic barriers that perpetuated
inequality and exclusion in education, laying the foundation for a more inclusive and equitable society.
Empowerment through Education
Dr. Bhimrao Ramji Ambedkar, a Dalit activist, believed that education could transform social and economic
empowerment. He believed that education could break the chains of caste oppression and uplift individuals
and communities towards greater equality and dignity. He emphasised the cultivation of critical thinking,
rationality, and self-reliance as essential components of education. He believed that literacy alone was
insufficient to challenge entrenched social structures of inequality. Instead, he advocated for an education that
encouraged individuals to question prevailing norms and ideologies, fostering a spirit of inquiry and
independent thought. Education could develop the confidence and skills necessary to assert rights and
advocate for social justice. It could also be a means of economic empowerment, enabling individuals to break
free from poverty and exploitation by acquiring skills and knowledge that enhance their economic
opportunities and self-sufficiency. Dr. Ambedkar's vision of education as a vehicle for personal and societal
transformation was reflected in his vision of education as a vehicle for personal and societal progress.
Role of State
Dr. Bhimrao Ramji Ambedkar was a prominent figure in India's education system, focusing on social justice and
equality. He believed that the state had a crucial responsibility to ensure quality education and social equity for
all citizens, regardless of caste, class, or gender. Ambedkar advocated for state intervention to address systemic
inequalities faced by marginalised communities, emphasising the need for affirmative action measures. His
contributions to the framing of educational policies in India were instrumental in shaping the country's
approach to education. As the Chairman of the Drafting Committee of the Indian Constitution, he enshrined
universal access to education and social justice principles in the Constitution. Ambedkar's vision laid the
foundation for educational reforms in India, promoting social inclusion and fostering a more equitable society.
His legacy continues to inspire efforts to create a more just and inclusive education system.
Case Studies and Examples
A prominent instance of how Dr. Ambedkar's educational philosophies have been put into practice is the Dr.
Babasaheb Ambedkar Open University (BAOU) located in Gujarat, India. Establishing itself in 1994, BAOU's
mission was to give people who couldn't attend traditional educational institutions because of social, economic,
or geographic limitations, flexible and accessible higher education options. Distance education allows students
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to study at their own pace and convenience, and the institution provides a wide selection of undergraduate,
postgraduate, and vocational courses. Dr. Ambedkar saw education as a tool for social change and
empowerment, which is greatly supported by BAOU's emphasis on inclusive and open learning. By reaching out
to marginalised and underserved communities, including Dalits, tribal groups, women, and rural populations,
BAOU embodies Dr. Ambedkar's commitment to ensuring equal access to education for all sections of society.
The implementation of reservation policies in Indian educational institutions serves as another illustration. In
order to remedy the historical injustices Dalits and other underprivileged communities encountered in gaining
access to education, Dr. Ambedkar was a key proponent of affirmative action policies. The reservation system
seeks to advance social justice and representation in higher education by setting aside a specific percentage of
seats in educational institutions for members of Other Backward Classes (OBC), Scheduled Tribes (ST), and
Scheduled Castes (SC). Dr. Ambedkar's conviction that the state has a duty to combat structural injustices and
promote inclusive learning environments is reflected in this policy endeavour. Reservation policies have
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enabled marginalised students to pursue their academic goals and make a positive impact on the nation's
development by increasing their participation in higher education.
Additionally, grassroots movements inspired by Dr. Ambedkar's teachings have led to the establishment of
alternative educational initiatives focused on empowering marginalised communities. For example, in
Maharashtra, India, the Dalit Shikshan Mandal runs a network of schools with the goal of giving Dalit children
access to high-quality education. These educational institutions place a high value on the holistic development
of their pupils and integrate social justice, human rights, and empowerment lessons into the curriculum. Dr.
Ambedkar's vision of education as a weapon for social reform and grassroots empowerment is embodied by
these efforts, which instil pride in Dalit identity and provide students with the information and skills to
confront discrimination.
CHALLENGES AND FUTURE DIRECTIONS
Dr. B.R. Ambedkar's vision for education faces several challenges, including social inequalities, inadequate
resources, and institutional barriers. Caste-based discrimination and socio-economic disparities hinder access
to quality education for marginalised communities, particularly Dalits. The commodification of education and
market forces prioritise profit over equitable opportunities, and bureaucratic inefficiencies, corruption, and
political interference in educational institutions exacerbate these inequalities. To advance Dr. Ambedkar's
vision, future research and action should focus on policy reforms, awareness campaigns, enhancing the quality
of education, and fostering grassroots movements. Policy reforms should prioritise inclusive and equitable
education, while initiatives promoting awareness and sensitization about caste-based discrimination are
crucial. Enhancing the quality of education through teacher training, curriculum reform, and infrastructure
development in marginalised areas is also essential. Finally, empowering marginalised communities to demand
their rights to education and participate in decision-making processes is vital for sustainable change.
Legislative Contributions
Dr. B.R. Ambedkar was a key figure in India's education system, advocating for social justice and
empowerment. As the principal architect of the Indian Constitution, he ensured education was a fundamental
right for every citizen, drafting Article 45 that mandated free and compulsory education for children up to 14.
Ambedkar's legislative efforts extended beyond constitutional provisions to address social inequalities and
discrimination in education. As the first Law Minister of independent India, he introduced the Hindu Code Bill,
reforming Hindu personal laws, promoting gender equality and social justice. He also established the Finance
Commission of India, which allocates resources for education and social welfare programs. Ambedkar's
legislative contributions highlighted the transformative power of education as a means of empowerment and
social upliftment, dismantling caste-based discrimination, promoting equality of opportunity, and creating a
more inclusive society.
Comparisons With Other Educational Philosophies
Dr. B.R. Ambedkar's educational philosophy, rooted in his experiences as an untouchable in India's caste
system, emphasises the importance of education in challenging social hierarchies and empowering
marginalised communities. Unlike Gandhi's emphasis on traditional and rural education, Ambedkar advocated
for a modern, secular education system that prioritised intellectual empowerment and critical thinking skills.
Rabindranath Tagore's educational philosophy, embodied in his Santiniketan institution, emphasised holistic
education through a close connection with nature, arts, and community living. While Tagore's emphasis on
creativity and individuality resonated with Ambedkar's vision of education as a means of personal and
collective liberation, their approaches differed in terms of cultural nationalism versus social reform.
Paulo Freire's critical pedagogy shares more common ground with Ambedkar's educational philosophy,
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emphasising the importance of education in raising critical consciousness and empowering marginalised
groups to challenge oppressive structures. However, Ambedkar's approach was more legalistic and focused on
achieving social justice through constitutional means.
In summary, while each thinker had distinct educational philosophies shaped by their contexts and ideologies,
they shared a common commitment to using education as a tool for social transformation and empowerment.
CONCLUSION
Dr. B.R. Ambedkar's educational philosophy and vision emphasise social justice, equality, and empowerment.
For Dr. B.R. Ambedkar, education was the primary key to unlocking the doors of light, vision, and wisdom. He
emphasised the importance of education, unity, and fight in his message to society and nation. He claims that
education and society are inextricably linked because only education allows for societal advancement and
development. He advocated for universal access to education and equal opportunities for all, regardless of caste
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GAP BODHI TARU
A GLOBAL JOURNAL OF HUMANITIES
( ISSN – 2581-5857 )
Impact Factor: SJIF - 5.551, IIFS - 5.125
Globally peer-reviewed and open access journal.
or social background. He emphasised the importance of creating a meritocratic society where individuals are
judged based on their abilities rather than birth. Dr. Ambedkar's vision of education aimed to cultivate critical
thinking, social awareness, and values like justice, equality, and empathy. He viewed education as a means to
challenge existing power structures and promote social reform. He also emphasised the need for economic
empowerment and self-reliance through education. Dr. Ambedkar's ideas continue to inspire scholars,
educators, and activists worldwide, reminding us of the transformative potential of education in building a
more just and equitable society.
REFERENCES
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[3] Singh, Kuldip. "Dr. Ambedkar's Educational Philosophy." Social Change, vol. 44, no. 3, 2014, pp. 376-385.
[4] Moon, Vasant. "Dr. B.R. Ambedkar's Vision of Education: A Critical Appraisal." Perspectives in Education,
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[5] Omvedt, Gail. "Ambedkar: Towards an Enlightened India." Penguin Books India, 2004.
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