Union Minister for Education, Skill Development and Entrepreneurship, Dharmendra Pradhan, emphasized that English is not a pre-requisite for technological innovation. Speaking at the inauguration of the ‘Innovation, Development and Entrepreneurship Bootcamps’ at the College of Engineering Pune Technological (COEP) University, he highlighted the importance of nurturing talent in India irrespective of English proficiency.
Pradhan pointed out that countries such as China, Japan, Germany, and Italy, known for their technological advancements, do not prioritize English fluency as a determinant of talent. “It is not that they cannot speak in English. They simply prefer not to,” stated the Union Minister during his address to participants and faculty members at the boot camps being organized across six cities in the country.
He further emphasized that the crucial phase of mental development in children occurs between the ages of three and eight when they primarily communicate in their native languages. Pradhan acknowledged the diversity of languages spoken in India and emphasized the need to recognize talent beyond English-speaking abilities.
During his virtual interaction with students at the other boot camp venues, Pradhan greeted them in regional languages such as Odia and Bengali. He took the opportunity to learn about their technological innovations and projects, encouraging them to not only seek jobs but also aspire to become job creators. The minister emphasized the importance of fostering an entrepreneurial mindset, promoting innovation, and cultivating critical thinking skills among students.
The ‘Innovation, Development and Entrepreneurship Bootcamps’ serve as platforms for students to explore their creativity, develop their problem-solving abilities, and gain exposure to entrepreneurship. Through these initiatives, the government aims to nurture a culture of innovation and equip students with the skills required to excel in the ever-evolving technological landscape.
Pradhan’s remarks shed light on the significance of recognizing and harnessing talent irrespective of language barriers. By emphasizing the need to move beyond language proficiency, he encourages a more inclusive approach to technological innovation and promotes the potential for India to emerge as a global hub for technological advancements.
