358 EARLIER INDIAN SPEECHES
received State recognition, it will be introduced as a compulsory language in Madras as in other Provinces, and intercourse between Madras and them will then in- crease. English has not permeated the Dravidian masses. Hindi, however, will take no time. The Telugus are making an effort in that direction even now. If this Conference can come to an unanimous conclusion as to a national language, it will be necessary to devise means to attain that end. Those which have been suggested in connection with media of instruction are with necessary changes applicable to this question. The activity in making Gujarati the medium of instruc- tion will be confined to Guzarat alone, but the whole of India can take part in the movement regarding the national language.
DKFHCTS IN OUR EDUCATIONAL SYSTEM.
We have considered the question of the media of instruction, of the national language, and of the place that English should occupy. We have now to consider whether there are any defects in the scheme of edu- cation imparted in our schools and colleges.
There is no difference of opinion in this matter. The Government and public opinion alike have condemned the present system, but there are wide differences as to what should be omitted and what should be adopted. I am not equipped for an examination of these differences, but I shall have the temerity to submit to this confer- ence my thoughts on the modern system of education.
Education cannot be said to fall within my pro- vince. I have, therefore, some hesitation in dwelling upon it. I am myself ever prepared to put down and be impatient of those men and women who travelling outside their provinces discourse upon those for which
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