Traditions in Transition: Gurukul vs. Buddhist Education Systems

This article examines the distinctive educational paradigms of the Gurukul and Buddhist education systems in ancient India, highlighting their philosophical foundations, institutional structures, and pedagogical methodologies. The Gurukul system, rooted in the Vedic tradition, emphasises personalised, residential learning aimed at holistic human development and character formation through moral education. In contrast, the Buddhist education model promotes an egalitarian and institutionalised approach centred on universal enlightenment and compassion. While both systems share the overarching goal of fostering profound human development, they differ significantly in their accessibility and philosophical underpinnings. Through a detailed and nuanced analysis, this paper synthesises scholarly material to elucidate the complexities and interrelations of these two influential educational frameworks, ultimately demonstrating their enduring impact on contemporary educational discourse and policy.