Infosys founder NR Narayana Murthy has articulated a compelling stance on the need for improved compensation for teachers in India, asserting that this is pivotal for the nation’s advancement. Addressing attendees at the Infosys Prize ceremony conducted by the Infosys Science Foundation, Murthy emphasized the imperative of demonstrating profound respect and providing elevated salaries and facilities to educators and researchers. He expounded on a comprehensive four-step plan designed to propel the country’s growth, leveraging the crucial role of educators and researchers.
In delineating his vision, Murthy elucidated, “There exist four stages in the invention and innovation lifecycle of a nation. Progressing from stage one, characterized by a lack of invention and innovation, to the pinnacle of stage four, where a nation becomes a pioneer in devising novel processes, products, and services, is contingent upon the foundational pillars of education and research.” He asserted that certain sectors in the country still find themselves in stage one of development, citing examples such as the design of livable cities, pollution management, traffic control, and the provision of clean and safe water.
Drawing attention to his previous remarks on India’s work productivity, Murthy underscored the significance of the country’s youth being willing to dedicate 70 hours a week to enhance productivity. Furthermore, he advocated a strategic approach to accelerate the outcomes of the National Education Policy (NEP) by engaging retired teachers. Proposing the establishment of 2,500 “Train the Teacher” colleges across 28 states and 8 union territories, Murthy suggested enlisting 10,000 retired, highly accomplished teachers in STEM areas from India and the developed world. As part of this initiative, he proposed an annual compensation of $100,000 for each retired teacher, estimating a total program cost of $20 billion over two decades.
Murthy’s visionary perspective aligns with the broader goals of NEP 2020, aimed at transforming India’s education landscape from elementary to higher education and vocational training. The Infosys founder’s forward-looking proposals not only underscore the pivotal role of educators but also advocate strategic investments for the nation’s sustainable progress.
