Impact of Rabindranath Tagore’s Philosophy on the Education of Sri Lanka

Abstract

Tagore's philosophy of education, rooted in humanism, creativity, and a deep appreciation for nature, continues to resonate in Sri Lanka's educational landscape and has had a significant impact on shaping its educational system. As Sri Lankan educators and policymakers encountered Tagore's ideas, they saw an opportunity to revolutionize their educational practices and adapt them to their unique socio-cultural context. This research paper explores the impact of Rabindranath Tagore's philosophy of education in Sri Lanka. Research Objectives were to examine the philosophy of education of Rabindranath Tagore and the impact of Rabindranath Tagore’s philosophy of education in Sri Lanka. Data for the research was collected from secondary sources and analyzed qualitatively. Secondary data directly address the impact of Rabindranath Tagore's philosophy on education in Sri Lanka. This data included scholarly articles, books, reports, and historical documents that discuss this specific subject. Content analysis is the primary research method used in this study. It systematically analyzes textual and documentary data to uncover themes, patterns, and trends related to Tagore's impact on Sri Lankan education. Historical methodology, analytical methodology, and descriptive methodology were used as research methodologies. Sri Lankans were drawn to Tagore's emphasis on holistic learning, freedom of thought, and the integration of arts and literature in education. Tagore's principles were integrated into the arts, literature, and music programs, enriching the cultural fabric of Sri Lankan education, and nurturing a sense of identity and pride in the nation's heritage. In conclusion, while Tagore's philosophy of education may not have had an immediate impact on the education system in Sri Lanka, his ideas have contributed to the development of a more holistic and creative approach to learning in the country.