University training for Gramsevaks in India, an example of recurrent education in a low income country

Pant University of Agriculture and Technology initiated a special two-year Bachelor of Science Agriculture program for Gramsevaks or Villages Level Workers. To qualify for admission, Gramsevaks had to meet these minimum qualifications: first, a pass in both the high school and intermediate examinations; second, a pass in the two-year diploma course for Gramsevaks; and third, five years of experience in extension or its equivalent. The program represents a departure from the normal three year undergraduate program in agriculture: first, by lowering its admission standards with respect to previous academic work; and second, by decreasing the degree program by one year. The one year reduction in the degree program is tantamount to substituting five years of experience in agricultural extension for one year of university course work. The Gramsevak program demonstrates the effective use of a program of recurrent education both from the standpoint of efficiency and equity. The social rate of return was shown to be equal to or greater than the comparable return for the regular graduate. The higher return is dependent on the reduction of the program for Gramsevaks by one year. The better academic performance of Gramsevaks despite weaker educational backgrounds and being out of school for ten or more years indicates that no deterioration has occurred in their ability to perform in an academic environment. It may well be that Gramsevaks are more motivated and aware of career objectives. These two factors may have compensated for any deterioration in learning ability.