Youth Empowerment and Education | Rajneesh Tomar | TEDxJIMSKalkaji

Self-Improvement and Leading by Example

• A powerful quote by Mr. Rumi emphasizes the importance of self-improvement, stating that when he was clever, he wanted to change the world, but now that he is wise, he is changing himself (27s).
• The daily routine of a person is often focused on telling children what to do, but not showing them how to do it, and not leading by example, such as telling them to switch off their phone and read a book, but not doing so oneself (1m41s).
• Children are great imitators, so it is essential to give them something great to imitate, and to reflect on one's own behavior before expecting them to behave properly (2m13s).

Struggles with Education and the Importance of Imitation

• The speaker recalls their childhood as an outstanding student, but struggling with mathematics and English, and how they never understood the need to speak or write in English (3m1s).
• The speaker shares a story about an exam where they had to write about Akbar, but struggled to start, and how a friend gave them a "magic formula" that ultimately did not work, leading to failure in the examination (3m52s).
• The speaker reflects on the pressure they faced from teachers and parents, and how they felt like they did not know what to do or how to improve (4m53s).

The Pressure to Perform and the Flaws in the Education System

• The speaker identifies two things that were hampering their life, but first notes that education institutes are often focused on finishing the curriculum, rather than ensuring students absorb the knowledge (5m39s).
• The speaker compares the focus on finishing the curriculum to being a slave to time, and wonders why students are not performing well, suggesting that it is like serving a meal without considering whether the person is hungry (6m15s).
• A classroom scenario is described where a professor teaches a complex mathematical formula, causing half the students to fall asleep, while the other half waits for the break, highlighting the disengagement of students in traditional teaching methods (6m17s).
• In contrast, another classroom scenario is presented where a professor starts a discussion by asking students to share their observations from their daily commute, leading to an engaging conversation about traffic problems and potential solutions, demonstrating the effectiveness of interactive learning (7m12s).
• This approach encourages students to think critically, contribute to discussions, and develop problem-solving skills, ultimately leading to civic awareness and empowerment (8m14s).
• It is emphasized that learning is not limited to the classroom and can occur anywhere, and that empowerment is about making individuals realize their own potential, rather than giving them power (9m30s).
• A saying is mentioned, "give a man a fish and you feed him for a day, teach him how to fish and you feed him for a lifetime," highlighting the importance of encouraging students to ask questions and become lifelong learners (9m48s).

Interactive Learning and Empowerment

• A personal anecdote is shared about a professor, Mr. M P, who changed the way subjects were taught in the classroom, making studies more engaging and interesting (10m20s).
• A story is told about two friends, aged 7 and 11, who were mischievous and did not study, but one day found themselves in a life-threatening situation when the elder friend fell into a well, and the younger friend had to find a way to rescue him (10m56s).
• The story highlights the resourcefulness and quick thinking of the younger boy, who managed to find a rope and rescue his friend, demonstrating the potential for empowerment and problem-solving in unexpected situations (12m28s).
• A story is shared about two friends where one friend falls into a well, and the other, despite being smaller and weaker, manages to lift his friend out after multiple attempts, showcasing the power of determination and effort (12m34s).
• The villagers, including a wise man named Rahim Chacha, initially doubt the story but eventually believe it, highlighting the importance of trusting and believing in others (13m47s).

The Power of Empowerment and Problem-Solving

• When a child is born, they are fearless, but repeated negative statements can instill fear and limit their potential, as they are told they cannot do certain things (15m6s).
• According to scientists, a child is born with 100 billion neurons, and positive reinforcement can help connect these neurons, while negative statements can hinder this process, known as neuroplasticity (15m19s).
• The way we educate children is often focused on telling them what they cannot do, rather than encouraging them to try and explore, which can limit their potential and creativity (15m51s).
• Education should be about asking questions and exploring, rather than just memorizing what is in a book, with the word "why" being a powerful tool in the learning process (16m26s).

Neuroplasticity and the Impact of Positive Reinforcement

• The responsibility of a child's education and development is often debated between parents and teachers, but it is essential to recognize that both parties play a crucial role in shaping the child's values and behaviors (17m18s).
• The goal should be to create institutions that foster creativity, curiosity, and growth, where asking questions is encouraged and valued, rather than just memorizing formulas and following rules (17m51s).
• It is essential to trust the process of education and recognize that the way we were raised may not be the same as the way our children are being raised, and that they can teach us new things (18m26s).
• Teachers are required to be mentors and guides, allowing children to ask questions and explore, rather than just memorizing formulas, and recognizing that there is no right or wrong, only lessons learned (18m48s).
• Students are encouraged to ask questions as it helps build curiosity and awareness about things not found in textbooks (19m13s).

The Importance of Encouraging Questions and Lifelong Learning

• It is essential to remember that regardless of one's position in life, whether in a job or corporate career, one should never be jealous or envious of others (19m37s).
• Individuals should focus on their own lives and take responsibility for moving forward, rather than comparing themselves to others (20m17s).
• It is crucial to appreciate and acknowledge the opportunities and privileges one has, recognizing that others may not have the same advantages (20m30s).
• Embracing this mindset allows individuals to focus on their own growth and progress, rather than feeling envious or inadequate (20m35s).