Fostering Civic Consciousness: Workshops on Constitutional Values for Educators

The fundamental values enshrined in the Constitution – equality, liberty, fraternity, secularism, justice etc. often remain abstract concepts for students, confined within the pages of textbooks. Recognizing this gap, Karnataka State Higher Education Academy (KSHEA) envisioned a programme that would equip educators with not just a comprehensive understanding of these values but also the tools to translate them into tangible experiences for their students.

Guided by this vision, Visthar designed and facilitated creative and participatory sessions which enabled the educators to delve into the very essence of the Constitution. Each core principle – equality, liberty, fraternity, secularism, and justice – was accorded its own dedicated session, allowing for in-depth exploration and nuanced understanding. The first in the series of workshops had 58 commerce teachers from government colleges across the state and was held on the 25^th and 26^th of November 2023.

The workshop embraced a vibrant tapestry of creative and participatory methodologies. Case studies presented real-life scenarios, challenging participants to critically analyse power dynamics and potential violations of constitutional rights. Games and quizzes sparked lively discussions, while theatre and role-play exercises provided platforms for experiential learning. Each group discussion hummed with the energy of diverse perspectives, as participants grappled with complex issues and sought solutions rooted in constitutional principles.

The workshop wasn’t merely an academic exercise; it was a call to action. By equipping educators with frameworks and tools for analysing social realities through the lens of the Constitution, the Visthar team, comprising Mercy Kappen and Nazar P.S., empowered them to become torchbearers of civic consciousness within their classrooms. The goal was not just to impart knowledge but to ignite a passion for social responsibility, nurturing future generations of informed and engaged citizens.

The echoes of this workshop will undoubtedly resonate far beyond the confines of the training room. As the 58 educators return to their classrooms, they carry within them the seeds of transformation. They are no longer just teachers; they are architects of a more just and equitable society. In their hands lies the power to translate the lofty ideals of the Constitution into the lived experiences of their students, ensuring that these fundamental values not only shape curriculum content but also permeate the very fabric of the educational environment.

The workshop on Constitutional values is not just a one-time event; it is a ripple in the pond, sending out waves of change that have the potential to touch the lives of countless students. As these educators step back into their classrooms, the seeds sown during the workshop will take root, blossoming into a generation imbued with the spirit of the Constitution.