INTEGRAL LEARNING AND GLOBAL CITIZENSHIP: THE EDUCATIONAL PHILOSOPHY OF INDIAN LUMINARIES AND THEIR APPROACH TOWARD QUALITY EDUCATION

Pursuing holistic education aligns deeply with the vision of the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), especially Goal 4: Quality Education. This paper explores the educational philosophies of three influential Indian thinkers—Sri Aurobindo, Rabindranath Tagore, and Sri Sathya Sai Baba—highlighting their shared belief in education as a transformative force for individual and societal growth. Sri Aurobindo advocates for integral education that nurtures the physical, mental, and spiritual dimensions of the human being. His approach closely mirrors SDG 4's emphasis on inclusive, equitable, and lifelong learning that extends beyond traditional academic frameworks. Rabindranath Tagore’s vision centers on creativity, freedom, and a deep connection with nature and community. He imagines education as a dynamic and holistic process that integrates critical thinking, cultural awareness, and artistic expression. Sri Sathya Sai Baba emphasizes the moral and spiritual dimensions of education, focusing on the development of character through the practice of universal values such as love, truth, righteousness, peace, and non-violence. Together, these perspectives advocate for an education that shapes not only informed minds but also compassionate hearts and responsible global citizens. By grounding learning in ethical awareness, cultural sensitivity, and social responsibility, their teachings offer a powerful framework for education that supports sustainable and just development.