Shaping Character of Learners through NEP-2020: The Interplay of Ethics, Morality & Spirituality in Value Education

Abstract

Ethics, Morality and Spirituality are three foundations of value education through which the education system is being upheld. NEP-2020 suggested various pathways regarding this interplay of value education. This study is exposing ‘value education’ as the pioneer of the learning process of every individual. It also means knowing why ethics, morality, and spirituality are essential in education. It also covers the value education at the level of school education and higher education; at last, it reflects the value education and its interplay with the lens of the National Education Policy-2020. Indian ethos is the army force of the character development of an individual, and this leads to the building of the society. Honesty, resilience, equality, equity, social justice, humanity, patriotism, respect, diverse nature, courtesy, courage and integrity being developed in the children from the early childhood period are emphasized by NEP-2020. This study aims to achieve the respective objectives: 1) To study ethics, morality and spirituality as core dimensions of value education in the context of NEP-2020, 2) To explore the interplay and interdependence of ethics, morality and spirituality in fostering holistic development, 3) To study the importance of value education in school and higher education. The paper follows a conceptual and exploratory research design, aiming to: Interpret existing literature on value education, ethics, morality, and spirituality. Analyse policy documents, particularly NEP-2020. This study relies entirely on policy documents, academic literature like books, peer-reviewed journal articles and conference papers on ethics, morality, spirituality, and education. The study concludes the reformation of basic value education in the current scenario of young modern, technological advanced generation with new pathways of curriculum development and pedagogical practices. It uniquely positions ethics, morality, and spirituality not as isolated components but as interdependent pillars of character formation. Unlike conventional approaches that may treat values superficially, this study delves deeply into their philosophical and practical intersections.