Dr. B.R. Ambedkar's educational journey was more than a personal milestone; it became a powerful force for social change, inspiring reform and empower

Dr. B.R. Ambedkar’s educational journey was not just a personal achievement but a powerful catalyst for social change. His relentless pursuit of knowledge and commitment to education significantly influenced the fight against caste discrimination and the quest for social justice in India, leaving a lasting legacy that continues to inspire millions today.

B.R. Ambedkar, one of India's most significant social reformers and the architect of the Indian Constitution, had a remarkable educational journey that shaped his thoughts and activism.

Early Education

1. Birth and Background: Born on April 14, 1891, in Mhow, Madhya Pradesh, Ambedkar belonged to the Mahar community, which faced severe discrimination and social ostracization. His early life was marked by the challenges of caste-based prejudice.

2. Primary Education: Despite societal obstacles, Ambedkar's father, a military officer, ensured he received a formal education. He attended a local school in Satara, Maharashtra, where he faced discrimination but persevered.

Higher Education

3. Graduation: In 1907, Ambedkar graduated from Elphinstone College in Mumbai, earning a degree in Economics and Political Science. He was one of the first from his community to receive a college education.

4. University Studies Abroad: His desire for higher education led him to the United States in 1913. He enrolled at Columbia University, where he pursued a Master’s degree in Economics. His time at Columbia was crucial for his intellectual development, and he was influenced by various Western philosophers and economists.

5. Ph.D. from Columbia: In 1927, he completed his doctoral dissertation titled "The Problem of the Rupee: Its Origin and Its Solution," focusing on economic issues in India.

6. London School of Economics: After completing his studies in the U.S., Ambedkar went to the London School of Economics (LSE) in 1920, where he studied under renowned economists and philosophers, further shaping his thoughts on social justice and economic reform.

Influence of Education on Reform

7. Formation of Ideology: Ambedkar’s education equipped him with the tools to analyze and critique social inequalities. He became increasingly aware of the injustices faced by the Dalit community and began to formulate ideas about equality, justice, and the need for reform.

8. Return to India: Upon returning to India, Ambedkar became a prominent advocate for the rights of the marginalized. His educational background allowed him to articulate demands for social reform and legal rights for the Dalits.

Legacy in Education

9. Promotion of Education: Ambedkar strongly believed that education was key to empowerment. He established educational institutions for the upliftment of the Dalit community, emphasizing the importance of learning and critical thinking.

10. Constitutional Guarantees: As the chief architect of the Indian Constitution, Ambedkar ensured provisions for the right to education, equality, and social justice, laying the groundwork for future generations to access education.

Dr Baba Saheb Ambedkar was the most educated person when India got freedom hence he was selected as Chairman for constitutional drafting committee.

At that time he was the only person who had B.A., M.A., M. Sc., L.L.D., D. Litt., Barrister-at-law, Doctor of laws and two PhD degrees. His educational details are as follows:

1. B.A. (Bombay University) Bachelor of Arts,
2. MA.(Columbia university) Master of Arts,
3. M.Sc.( London School of Economics) Master of Science,
4. Ph.D. (Columbia University) Doctor of Philosophy
5. D.Sc.( London School of Economics) Doctor of Science
6. L.L.D.(Columbia University)
7. Doctor of Laws
8. D.Litt. (Osmania University) Doctor of Literature
9. Barrister-at-La w (Gray's Inn, London) Law qualification for a lawyer in royal court of England.
10. Elementary Education, 1902, Satara, Maharashtra
11. Matriculation, 1907, Elphinstone High School, Bombay Persian etc.
12. Inter 1909, Elphinstone College,Bombay
13. Persian and English B.A, 1912 Jan, Elphinstone College, Bombay, University of Bombay,
14. Economics & Political Science M.A 2-6-1915
15. Faculty of Political Science, Columbia University, New York,
16. Main- Economics Ancillaries-Sociology, History, Philosophy, Anthropology, Politics
17. PhD 1917 Faculty of Political Science, Columbia University, New York,
18. The National Dividend of India - A Historical and Analytical Study, M.Sc 1921 June London School of Economics, London
19. Provincial Decentralization of Imperial finance in British India Barrister at- Law 30-9-1920 Gray's Inn, London Law
20. D.Sc 1923 Nov London School of Economics, London 'The Problem of the Rupee - Its origin and its solution' was accepted for the degree D.Sc. (Economics).
21. L.L.D (Honoris Causa) 5-6-1952 Columbia University, New York for his achievement, leadership and authoring the constitution of India.
22. D.Litt (Honoris Causa) 12-1-1953 Osmania University, Hyderabad For his achievements, leadership and writing the constitution of India.