Sep 29, 2025
In India, the word school often brings to mind exams, report cards, and marks. From the very beginning, children are put into a system where success is measured by scores. But around the world, some countries do things differently. They start by shaping values and character and only later bring in academic pressure.
Japan: Values Before Exams ❤
In Japan, the first three years of schooling are not about tests. Instead, children are guided to practise respect, kindness, teamwork, and responsibility. They clean their classrooms, serve food, and look after common spaces. These activities teach humility and a sense of belonging. When formal exams begin in the fourth grade, students are not only ready to study, they are ready to live responsibly in society.
Finland: Childhood Matters 🎈
In Finland, formal learning starts only at age 7. Until then, children learn through play, outdoor activities, and creativity. The focus is on social skills and curiosity rather than rushing into textbooks. Even later, there are very few standardised tests. Teachers trust children to learn at their own pace, and the system trusts teachers to guide them well.
Bhutan: Happiness in Learning 🌿
Bhutan follows an approach that connects education with happiness. Inspired by its idea of Gross National Happiness, schools include mindfulness, well-being, and cultural values in daily routines. Children are encouraged to reflect, stay connected to their roots, and grow in balance with society. The goal is not just academic results but a meaningful life.
India: Looking Back, Looking Ahead 🇮🇳
India too has a strong history of values-based education. The old gurukul system taught discipline, respect, and community living along with knowledge. But in modern times, the focus has shifted almost completely to exams and marks. Children as young as six face stress and comparisons.
It doesn’t have to stay this way. The National Education Policy (NEP 2020) already talks about holistic development and reducing exam stress. If we combine this vision with lessons from Japan, Finland, and Bhutan, India can bring back balance in its classrooms.
Steps India Can Take
1. Let the first few years of school build values, habits, and curiosity before rushing into heavy exams.
2. Add daily life skills like cleaning, gardening, or teamwork activities as part of learning.
3. Train teachers to act as mentors and guides, not just as exam coaches.
4. Encourage parents to celebrate creativity, kindness, and responsibility as much as marks.
5. Make classrooms spaces of confidence and character, not just of competition.
Closing Thought
Japan shows us how values strengthen society. Finland proves that giving children time to play makes them stronger learners. Bhutan reminds us that happiness must stay at the heart of education. India has both the roots and the reforms to walk this path. If we start focusing on the education of the heart before the education of the mind, our children will not just score well, they will live well. 🌍📚