Meaning, Purpose & Objectives of of Higher Education - Library & Information Science Education Network (2024)

Introduction:Higher education, often regarded as the pinnacle of academic pursuit, represents a transformative phase in the educational journey of individuals. Beyond elementary and secondary schooling, higher education encompasses specialized and advanced learning, nurturing intellect, critical thinking, and personal growth. Through a diverse array of disciplines and fields, higher education is a gateway to knowledge, expertise, and innovation, empowering students to become specialists in their chosen areas. As an integral part of societal progress, it fosters a culture of research and intellectual curiosity, shaping well-rounded individuals poised to make meaningful contributions to their communities and the world. At its core, higher education embodies the pursuit of excellence and self-discovery, preparing learners for future challenges while enriching their lives with the transformative power of education.

1.1 What is Higher Education^?

Higher education refers to the advanced level beyond the primary and secondary levels. It typically includes education provided by universities, colleges, professional schools, and other institutions that offer specialized academic and vocational programs. Higher education focuses on in-depth learning in specific fields of study, enabling individuals to develop expertise and advanced knowledge in their chosen areas.

At the higher education level, students pursue undergraduate and graduate degrees, such as Bachelor’s, Master’s, and Doctorate degrees, depending on their academic and career aspirations. The curriculum is more specialized and research-oriented than earlier education stages, encouraging critical thinking, analytical skills, and independent research.

Higher education serves various purposes, including:

1. Specialization: It allows students to focus on their areas of interest and expertise, preparing them for careers in specific industries or professions.
2. Research and Innovation: Higher education institutions are centers of research and development, contributing to the advancement of knowledge and the development of new technologies, ideas, and solutions.
3. Personal Growth: Beyond academic knowledge, higher education fosters personal development, character building, and a sense of social responsibility.
4. Career Advancement: Higher education equips individuals with the necessary skills and qualifications to pursue higher-level positions and leadership roles in their fields.
5. Lifelong Learning: It instills a love for learning beyond graduation, encouraging continuous education and personal growth.

Higher education is a key driver of societal progress and economic development. Nations with well-developed higher education systems tend to have a more skilled and innovative workforce, contributing to overall prosperity and competitiveness in the global market. It plays a crucial role in shaping the future of individuals and society, empowering learners to become responsible and contributing members of their communities.

1.2 The Objectives of Higher Education

The objectives of higher education encompass a profound and multi-faceted purpose, elevating the pursuit of knowledge beyond mere academic instruction. At the heart of this noble endeavor lies the mission to equip learners with the tools to thrive in their chosen professions and as responsible and compassionate members of society. Higher education is a bastion of academic excellence, fostering critical thinking, innovation, and research that push the boundaries of human knowledge. Beyond specialization and career preparation, it seeks to nurture holistic personal development, cultivating ethical values, leadership qualities, and a global perspective. Higher education empowers individuals to adapt to evolving challenges, contribute meaningfully to their communities, and champion progress in a rapidly changing world by instilling a love for lifelong learning.

The objectives of higher education encompass a wide range of goals that aim to fulfill various roles in individuals’ personal, academic, and societal development. These objectives include:

1. Academic Excellence: One of the primary objectives of higher education is to provide rigorous and comprehensive academic programs that promote excellence in learning. Institutions strive to maintain high education standards and ensure that students understand their chosen disciplines deeply.
2. Specialization: Higher education allows students to specialize in specific fields of study, enabling them to acquire advanced knowledge and expertise in their areas of interest. The specialization prepares individuals for specialized careers and positions in their respective industries.
3. Critical Thinking and Problem-Solving: Higher education fosters critical thinking skills, encouraging students to analyze and evaluate information critically. It cultivates problem-solving abilities that empower graduates to address complex challenges in their professional and personal lives.
4. Research and Innovation: Higher education institutions are hubs of research and innovation. Encouraging students and faculty to engage in research contributes to advancing knowledge, technological breakthroughs, and developing solutions to real-world problems.
5. Personal Development: Higher education aims to nurture holistic personal growth in students. It focuses on character building, ethical values, leadership qualities, and a sense of social responsibility, preparing individuals to be responsible and compassionate citizens.
6. Global Awareness and Cultural Understanding: Higher education encourages exposure to diverse perspectives, cultures, and ideas. Promoting global awareness and cultural understanding helps students develop a more inclusive and open-minded worldview.
7. Lifelong Learning: Instilling a love for learning that extends beyond graduation is an essential objective of higher education. Graduates are encouraged to embrace lifelong learning to adapt to changing circ*mstances, pursue professional development, and stay relevant in a rapidly evolving world.
8. Employment and Career Preparation: Higher education equips students with the skills and qualifications to enter the workforce and pursue successful careers. It provides internships, practical experiences, and networking opportunities, enhancing graduates’ employability.
9. Social and Economic Mobility: Higher education has the potential to uplift individuals from disadvantaged backgrounds, providing opportunities for social and economic mobility. It can break barriers and open doors to better opportunities and improved quality of life.
10. Contribution to Society: A significant objective of higher education is to foster a sense of civic responsibility and encourage graduates to contribute positively to their communities. Higher education is crucial in producing responsible and active citizens committed to making a difference in society.

Higher education institutions aim to empower individuals with the knowledge, skills, and values needed to lead fulfilling lives, positively impact society, and advance knowledge and human progress by pursuing these objectives.

The Radhakrishnan Commission³ presented a comprehensive set of objectives and purposes for higher education, acknowledging the evolving political, social, and economic landscape. These aims are as follows:

• The Commission emphasized the development of an intellectual attitude among university students, fostering a thirst for knowledge and critical thinking.
• Higher education was seen as a means to create visionary and courageous leaders who would champion social reform, addressing societal challenges with intelligence and insight.
• The universities were encouraged to assume a pivotal role as cultural organs and intellectual leaders, guiding civilization’s progress and promoting scholarly pursuits.
• Higher education was envisioned as a catalyst for the success of democracy, nurturing informed and engaged citizens who actively participate in the democratic process.
• The Commission advocated for discovering and enhancing individuals’ innate qualities through suitable training, empowering them to realize their potential.
• Higher education aims to instill sentiments of national discipline, international awareness, justice, freedom, equality, and brotherhood, nurturing global citizens committed to ethical values and unity.

The Kothari Commission has articulated its vision for the objectives and ideals of higher education as follows:

• Pursuit of Knowledge and Truth: Higher_education aims to seek knowledge within the framework of truth, blending tradition with new insights to adapt to changing circ*mstances.
• Contribution to Society: The commission stresses on producing educated and skilled individuals who can serve society in various domains such as arts, sciences, agriculture, medicine, and industries.
• Leadership Development: Higher_education strives to nurture leadership qualities in students, empowering them to excel and take charge in every sphere of life.
• Promotion of Social Justice: The commission advocates for higher_education to encourage social justice, fostering a more equitable and inclusive society.
• Nurturing Values: Higher_education seeks to instill the correct values among students and teachers, promoting ethical behavior and a sense of responsibility towards society.
• Reducing Disparities: Addressing social and cultural disparities is an essential objective, ensuring that education becomes a pathway for bridging gaps and promoting equality.
• National Consciousness: Higher_education is a means to develop a sense of national consciousness, nurturing a deep understanding of one’s cultural identity and contributing to the nation’s growth and unity.
• Adult Education Program: The commission emphasizes the development of programs for adult education, recognizing the importance of learning opportunities for individuals beyond traditional schooling age.

Through these multifaceted objectives, the Kothari Commission envisions higher education as a transformative force that enriches individuals, empowers society, and fosters a better future for the nation.

1.3 The Purpose of Higher Education:

The purpose of higher education is multifaceted and encompasses a broad range of objectives aimed at intellectual, personal, and societal development. While the specific goals and emphasis may vary among institutions, cultures, and individuals, the overarching purposes of higher_education include:

1. Academic Excellence and Learning:
   • Knowledge Acquisition: Higher_education is fundamentally about acquiring and deepening knowledge in various fields of study. It allows students to delve into subjects of interest, develop critical thinking skills, and gain expertise in specific disciplines.
2. Personal Development:
   • Critical Thinking and Problem-Solving: Higher_education fosters critical thinking and problem-solving skills, encouraging students to analyze information, evaluate arguments, and develop creative solutions to complex problems.
   • Personal Growth: College experiences contribute to personal growth and self-discovery. Students often better understand their values, beliefs, and identities, preparing them for a more meaningful and purposeful life.
3. Preparation for Careers and Professions:
   • Professional Skills: Higher_education equips students with the practical skills and knowledge needed for specific careers and professions. This preparation includes internships, hands-on experiences, and exposure to industry-relevant practices.
   • Career Advancement: A college degree is often a key factor in career advancement. Higher education provides the qualifications and credentials necessary for entry into many professions and can enhance job opportunities and earning potential.
4. Civic Engagement and Social Responsibility:
   • Global Citizenship: Higher_education promotes a sense of global citizenship by fostering an awareness of global issues, cultural diversity, and interconnectedness. It encourages students to engage in social and civic activities to contribute positively to their communities and the world.
   • Ethical Decision-Making: Through exposure to ethical theories and discussions, higher_education helps students develop a strong sense of ethics and integrity, preparing them to make principled decisions in their personal and professional lives.
5. Research and Innovation:
   • Advancement of Knowledge: Higher_education institutions contribute to advancing knowledge through research and innovation. Faculty and students engage in cutting-edge research that expands the boundaries of human understanding in various fields.
   • Technology and Discovery: Colleges and universities drive technological advancements and scientific discoveries. Research conducted in higher education institutions often leads to breakthroughs with broad societal impact.
6. Social and Cultural Enrichment:
   • Artistic and Cultural Appreciation: Higher_education encourages an appreciation for the arts, literature, and cultural diversity. Exposure to different perspectives fosters creativity, cultural competence, and a deeper world understanding.
   • Intellectual Dialogue: Colleges and universities are hubs for intellectual dialogue and academic discourse. Students engage with diverse ideas, challenge assumptions, and participate in conversations that broaden their intellectual horizons.
7. Lifelong Learning:
   • Adaptability and Lifelong Learning: Higher_education instills a commitment to lifelong learning. It equips individuals with the skills to adapt to a rapidly changing world, fostering a mindset of continuous education and personal development.

In essence, the purpose of higher_education extends beyond acquiring degrees and credentials. It seeks to cultivate well-rounded individuals who are intellectually curious, socially responsible, and equipped to contribute meaningfully to their communities and the broader global society. Higher education serves as a transformative journey that prepares individuals for the challenges and opportunities of the future.

Reference Articles:

• 1. Hijam, R. D. (2012). Management of the higher education in Manipur since 1972. http://hdl.handle.net/10603/39238
• 2. Rao, M. S., & V, K. V. (2011). Quality management in higher education: A case study of MBA colleges in select districts coastal Andhra Pradesh, India. http://hdl.handle.net/10603/8364
• 3. Barnet.R. 1992 Bernett R. (1992). Learning to Effect. Buckingham: Society for Research into Higher Education and Open University Press.
• 4. Bhatnagar Suresh: Modern Indian Education & its Problems, Surya Publication, Meerut, 1996.p/223