No educationist today thinks that education means only the study of books and passing examinations. It is universally admitted that a modern student must not only satisfy certain academic standards, but he must take upon himself a large number of extra-academic obligations. These related to the organization of the activities of students in order to give them scope to develop their latent powers in different departments of cultural life, as well as their capacity for undertaking works of social welfare. There are many indeed who would, for the general mass of students, attach for greater importance to this aspect of their college life than to their attendance at lectures and passing examinations.
In the early days of western type of education in our country the only extra-academic work that students were encouraged to undertake was the holding of debates on set subjects, the sole object being to develop the ability to speak English. Gradually, other functions were introduced, such as, holding dramatic performances and recitals, or taking part in sports. From the beginning of this country, under the influence of Vivekananda, students usually of the non-government colleges were encouraged to undertake various forms of social service, such as, to help their fellow students and to nurse the sick in their hostels. Whenever …show more content…
Instead of teacher-presidents, most college unions have their presidents and other office-bearers elected from among the students. They have, in many instances, written constitutions which define the character and functions of the unions. But there are others which work according to conventions. The fact remains that a college union nowadays is a vital part of college life; students take it with very great seriousness. They should, therefore, be treated seriously and looked upon as the training ground for future