The role of private institutions in a democratic society

Education is one of the most essential pillars of any society, shaping future generations and fostering values like critical thinking, respect for diversity, and individual freedom. In a thriving democracy, it is not only the content of education that matters but also the variety of choices available to families. A system that offers a range of educational models—both public and private—gives citizens the ability to choose the kind of education that best suits their children’s needs.

However, in recent times there has been a growing concern over increasing government regulation over private education, which risks undermining this essential diversity. Too much interference, especially in areas like education, not only limits choice but also weakens the foundation of democracy itself which is built on the principles of freedom, individuality, and the coexistence of different approaches.

Educational Diversity and Parental Choice

Educational diversity is the lifeblood of a democratic society. Private schools thrive by offering diverse educational approaches, allowing families to select schools and teaching methods that align with their children’s individual needs and aspirations. Private institutions include a lot of academic and non academic programs in their Annual Calendars. Private Institutions in our State have flourished due to the benevolence of the government in these areas. When holiday schedules and operational details become too rigidly regulated, the diversity of teaching methods, curricula, and operational practices that make private education appealing is diminished. Without educational diversity, we risk reducing education to a one-size-fits-all model that serves no one well.

In a democracy, parental choice is not just a right—it is a cornerstone of freedom. Parents must retain the authority to determine not only which school their child attends but also the educational philosophy that best aligns with their family values and their child’s future aspirations. As recognised in the Universal Declaration of Human Rights, “Parents have a prior right to choose the kind of education that shall be given to their children.” – Article 26(3). This principle is important in a democratic society.

Cultural and Religious Expression

Private schools are also essential for preserving cultural and religious diversity. Many private institutions are founded on cultural, linguistic, or religious principles that align with moral, spiritual and societal values and discipline, the values of specific communities. By allowing families to choose schools that reflect their own traditions and beliefs, private education promotes inclusivity and helps build a society that respects diversity. Too much government interference in such matters will prove detrimental to the health of the private institution.

Healthy Competition for Quality Education

Private schools also create healthy competition with public schools, which drives both systems to improve the quality of education they provide. When public and private schools coexist, they push each other to innovate and raise standards. This benefits students across both sectors, encouraging continuous improvement in teaching methods, infrastructure, and student support services. In a monopolistic system, whether public or private, there is a risk of stagnation and declining quality. Competition incentivizes schools to better meet the needs of their communities and adapt to changing educational demands. Govt’s positive support rather than interference in these matters is crucial.

Innovation and Educational Experimentation

Private schools often act as testing grounds for new ideas, teaching methods, and administrative models. They provide innovation in education, which can later inspire reform in public schools. The ability of private schools to experiment and adopt cutting-edge pedagogical methods is vital for educational progress. When the government micromanages private institutions, it stifles their ability to innovate and differentiate themselves from public schools. For a society to progress, different educational models should be allowed to flourish without unnecessary restrictions, so that the best ideas can be shared and adapted.

The Role of Private Institutions in a Democracy

The role of private institutions in a democracy is not a luxury—it is a necessity. When private institutions can operate freely, they serve as essential checks and balances, offering society alternatives and holding the government accountable. Overregulation stifles these institutions, diminishing their potential to contribute to societal advancement and innovation.

In a true democracy, we must nurture this diversity and autonomy. By allowing private institutions to flourish, we safeguard the richness of educational options, protect parental choice, and ensure that innovation continues to thrive for the benefit of all.

Media Cell

All Nagaland Private Schools’ Association, Central