Values-Based Education Systems for Developing Global Responsible Citizenship

Abstract

Value based education is the pedagogical approach in which human values such as truth, non-violence, respect, responsibility, compassion, honesty, cooperation and sustainability are made an integral part of the curriculum, teaching method and school culture. The 21st century is called the "Age of Knowledge" and the "Age of Global Interconnectedness". On the one hand, we have unprecedented technological powers like artificial intelligence, biotechnology and digital communication. On the other hand, we face complex global challenges such as climate change, pandemics, cybercrime, social inequality, cultural conflicts, and mental health crises. In this paradoxical scenario, the question arises, are technical skills and academic marks alone sufficient to prepare the citizens of the 21st century? The biggest drawback of the current education system is that it has separated knowledge and skills from values. As a result, we are producing professionals who are intelligent but not sensitive, skilled but not responsible. UNESCO 2014 introduced the concept of "global citizenship education" for this reason, which aims to create learners who understand local problems and contribute to global solutions.