Education for commerce
In 1854, the Court of Directors of the East India Company in London dispatched an educational directive to the Governor-General in India, known as Wood’s Despatch, authored by Charles Wood, the President of the Board of Control of the Company. This directive outlined a new educational policy for India, emphasizing the pragmatic benefits of European learning over Oriental knowledge.
European education, it was believed, would enable Indians to recognize the advantages of expanding trade and commerce and the importance of developing the nation’s resources.
By adopting European lifestyles, their preferences and aspirations would shift accordingly. Furthermore, European education was expected to enhance the moral character of Indians.
Following the issuance of the 1854 Despatch, the British introduced several measures to overhaul the education system. Government education departments were established to oversee all educational matters, and efforts were made to establish a university education system. Universities were subsequently founded in Calcutta, Madras, and Bombay in 1857. Additionally, initiatives were undertaken to reform the school education system.
CBSE Class 8 History Notes Chapter 7 – Civilising the Native, Educating the Nation
CBSE Class 8 History Chapter 6 – “Civilising the Native, Educating the Nation” aims to elucidate the impact of British rule on students’ lives. The British presence in India extended beyond territorial dominance and revenue management; they also perceived a cultural obligation to “civilise the natives” and reform their traditions and beliefs.
By understanding the notes for Chapter 6 of CBSE Class 8 History, students can gain a comprehensive understanding of these concepts.