Co-education means education of boys and girls together in the same school or college at the same time. In india it has recently become popular.
Co-education is not a new thing for us. In the good old days when 'Ashrams' were the seats of learning, co-education was in practice. In the Hindu scriptures, old records and legends we find a number of examples which show that co-education was all over the country. Practice continued till the coming of Muslims in India. The Purdah system put an end to co-education.
From the very beginning voices have been raised against co- education. Stephen Lealock, an American educationist declares, "Men cannot read when women are around".
There are many charges against Co-education. First, it lowers the tone of discipline. Secondly, it brings about a shift in the minds of students. Learning goes to the background and 'sex attraction reigns supreme'. Thirdly, it creates love of fashion and extravagance. Fourthly, girls sometimes run with the teachers.
The Chief argument in favour of co-education is economy. It would be foolish indeed to have two institutions at a place where only one will do. A poor country like India which needs education of women more than any other country cannot afford to have two institution at one place. The other argument is that Co-education creates better understanding between young men and young-women. After all they have to live together in life. Then why is the unnatural separation of sexes in our schools and colleges? The reasoning is sound.
The wise course in India would be to have un-fettered education up to the middle standard. Then for degree and post graduate classes in vocational and technical institution it would be better to have separate institution for boys and girls. We should see that co-education should not prove harmful to young boys and girls.
