Consequences of Neglecting Science Education

Synopsis:  Neglect of Science education on disease control and health is one of the main reasons for the current Covid crisis in India.

How Science Education can help in controlling the spread of disease?

• Firstly, many waterborne diseases in India could be prevented if children are taught the science behind the origin and causes of the disease.
• Secondly, for instance, in the case of Malaria, avoiding the proliferation of mosquitoes prevent the chances of being infected by the parasite. Malaria breeds in stagnant water. Spreading kerosene on stagnant water restricts the growth of Mosquito larvae.
• Thirdly, it is possible to prevent other diseases, such as typhoid fever and jaundice, by avoiding contaminated water. Children should be taught, how boiling water can kill microbes and ensure disease prevention.
• Fourthly, the same is the case with Common diarrhea. It can be prevented by ensuring the supply of clean water in all geographical locations,
• Fifthly, apart from teaching the Science behind the disease spread and control, it is important to instill a belief system regarding disease control and prevention. For instance,
  • Giving an opportunity for children to view microbes through use of Microscopes.
  • Conducting field study to educate them on how stagnant water helps in breeding mosquitos.

How the neglect of Science education in India, on disease control and health contributed to the current Covid crisis?

• Inefficiency of our education system has failed to instill belief system on controlling the diseases. For instance, to control the Pandemic, Health advisories such as Social distancing, wearing masks, ban on spitting are seen as a solution.
• Due to a lack of knowledge in the Science of Health and diseases, many violated these health advisories. It resulted in the rapid spread of Covid-19.
• Rather than cultivating belief in Science, our education system has cultivated belief in Fatalism.

Way forward

• Along with the due importance for science teaching, we need a rational social environment.
• Children should be encouraged to participate in dissent and debate to instill rationality.

Source: The Hindu

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