Relevance of Social Consciousness As An Integral Part of Life Skills In Indian Higher Education System

Abstract

Social consciousness, or social awareness, is defined as consciousness shared by individuals within a society. It essentially means to be conscious or aware of the problems within a society or community. India, being a country of having a large young-adult population lacks in providing quality higher education. The need for the hour is an education system that not only promotes theoretical learning but which also makes students socially conscious. Demography the fundamental driver of all economies — is shifting the balance of power and economics in Asia, and India will be the biggest winner. India has one of the youngest populations in an aging world. By 2020, the median age in India will be just 28, compared to 37 in China and the US, 45 in Western Europe, and 49 in Japan. Demographics can change the pace and pattern of economic growth. Since India is a paradox of young population and social challenges it's important to infuse social consciousness within them. This paper aims to understand the relevance of social consciousness amongst undergraduate students (i.e. 18-21 years of age). The paper is an outcome of a review of a substantial number of primary and secondary sources.