1st G20 Education Working Group Meeting Begins in Chennai

Chennai: The G 20 education working group began its deliberations at Chennai this morning. The meeting was inaugurated by Union Minister of State Dr L.Murugan.

The focus of the deliberations will be on ensuring foundational literacy and numeracy, especially in the context of blended learning. Making tech-enabled learning more inclusive, qualitative and collaborative at every level. The remarks will be made by Indonesia, Brazil, and other countries. Bangladesh, Egypt, Mauritius, Netherlands, Nigeria, Oman, Singapore, Spain and the United Arab Emirates will be the guest countries attending the education working group.

In his inaugural address, Dr Murugan said that India’s presidency in G 20 has given the opportunity for the member countries to underline common priorities, reiterate common commitments and evolve common action for improving the reach, quality and outcomes of education.

He quoted Prime Minister’s vision on the aim of the Presidency to strive for just and equitable growth for all in a sustainable holistic responsible and inclusive manner. He told that the aim of the working group is to work collectively and evolve solutions that will help all countries and societies to strengthen their education systems and attain the targets under the UN Sustainable development goal 4.

He told that India attaches great importance to collaboration between G 20 members in education and other fields. He called for all countries to work together to build a common future keeping education as the focal point for addressing the common challenge.

Later, addressing the media, Dr Murugan said that India was an educational hub and it was a big opportunity for Tamil Nadu and Chennai in particular to show the ancient heritage and culture.

Chennai, the capital of Tamilnadu is all decked up for the G 20 event. Banners and posters welcoming the guests could be seen all over the city. The delegates were given a warm welcome at the venue. Artisans from all over the State are present at the venue to showcase the artefacts and also the traditional methods of making them.

Traditional millets and cereals have been kept for display at the venue. After the first session, the delegates will be leaving for an excursion to Mahabalipuram which is a UNESCO World Heritage site. Ratri Bhoj par Samvad will be the event at the end of the day. The education working group deliberations will continue for the second day tomorrow.