ACADEMIC FREEDOM AND TEACHER EDUCATION IN INDIA: INSIGHTS FROM THE NATIONAL EDUCATION POLICY 2020

The concept of academic freedom plays a vital role in shaping educational systems worldwide, particularly within teacher education programs. In India, the National Education Policy (NEP) 2020 introduces significant reforms aimed at improving the quality of education and empowering teachers with greater autonomy. This paper examines the relationship between academic freedom and teacher education within the framework of NEP 2020, focusing on the policy’s potential to enhance or constrain academic freedom in teacher training institutions. A review of related literature offers insights into how academic freedom is perceived globally and how it has been implemented in teacher education systems in countries like the U.S., Finland, and Germany. The paper explores the impact of NEP 2020 on academic freedom in India, discussing both positive and negative consequences, and draws comparisons with international best practices. The findings indicate that while NEP 2020 promotes flexibility and innovation in teacher education, the successful realization of these goals will depend on addressing regional disparities and ensuring consistent policy implementation across the country.