Sri Aurobindo International Centre Of Education

Before the 1940s children were, as a rule, not permitted to live in the Ashram. But when, during the war, a number of families were admitted, it was found necessary to initiate a course of instruction for the children. Accordingly, on 2 December 1943the Mother opened a school for about twenty pupils. She herself was one of the teachers. The number of children increased gradually over the next seven years.

On 24 April 1951 the Mother presided over a convention where it was resolved to establish an "international university centre", and on 6 January 1952 she inaugurated the Sri Aurobindo International University Centre. The name of this institution was changed in 1959 to the Sri Aurobindo International Centre of Education.

At present, the Centre of Education has about 150 full or part time teachers and 500 students, ranging from nursery to advanced levels. The curriculum includes the humanities, languages, fine arts, sciences, engineering, technology and vocational training; Facilities include libraries, laboratories, workshops, a theatre and studios for dance, music, painting, etc.

The Centre of Education seeks to develop every aspect of the child, rather than to concentrate exclusively on mental training. A special emphasis is put on physical education. All students (as well as many Ashram members) take part in daily physical activities, including athletics, aquatics, gymnastics, games, combative sports and asanas. The department of physical education maintains a fully equipped sports ground, a swimming pool, a gymnasium, tennis courts, a judo hall, a playground and other modern facilities.

Instruction at the Centre of Education is given according to the "free progress system", which is, in the words of the Mother. "a progress guided by the soul and not subject to habits, conventions or preconceived ideas". The student is encouraged to learn by himself, choose his own subjects of study, progress at a pace suited to his own needs and ultimately to take charge over his own development. The teacher is more an advisor and source of information than an instructor. In practice, this system is adapted to the temperament of teacher and student, and some still prefer traditional methods utilising prescribed courses of study with direct instruction by the teacher.

Sciences and mathematics are studied in French, other subjects in English. Each student is encouraged to learn his mother tongue and Sanskrit, and some study additional languages, both Indian and European.

The Centre of Education does not award degrees or diplomas, since it seeks to awaken in its students the joy of learning and an aspiration for progress independent of outer motives.