President-elect Donald Trump wants the Department of Education gone. During his presidential campaign, Trump made waves by repeatedly pledging to eliminate the U.S. Department of Education, calling it a symbol of federal overreach and an unnecessary drain on taxpayer money. The promise was bold: “We will ultimately eliminate the federal Department of Education,” he declared at a rally in Wisconsin back in 2016. His critics and supporters alike raised eyebrows, but what would actually happen if such a move were to be made?

The Department of Education, created in 1979 under President Jimmy Carter, has long played a pivotal role in shaping America’s education system. If Trump’s plan were to move forward, it could mean sweeping changes to how K-12 schools are funded and how federal education policies are implemented.

The Core Functions of the Department

The Department of Education performs several essential roles in the American education system. For one, it funnels billions of federal dollars to states and schools. Its two major funding programs—Title I and IDEA—help support schools serving low-income students and children with disabilities. These programs provide nearly $28 billion annually to K-12 schools, although they represent only a small fraction of overall school funding. The bulk of K-12 school budgets comes from state and local taxes. The Department of Education also manages federal student loans and financial aid programs, including Pell grants, which distribute about $30 billion annually to help low-income college students.

Without these programs, how would schools and students fare? The answer isn’t clear-cut, but one thing is certain: federal funding has become a significant tool in ensuring access to education, especially for marginalized groups.

The Bureaucratic Web: Oversight and Regulations

In addition to distributing funding, the Department of Education plays an oversight role, ensuring that schools meet federal standards and investigating issues of discrimination. Through its Office of Civil Rights, the department enforces rules aimed at preventing discrimination on the basis of race, gender, and disability in schools. Over the years, the department has also been a key player in regulating hot-button issues—such as protections for transgender students and regulations on student loan forgiveness programs.

But what happens if this regulatory body no longer exists? One potential scenario could involve the transfer of these responsibilities to other federal agencies or a decentralization of decision-making power to state and local governments.

Federal Funds: The Strings Attached

Federal money doesn’t come without conditions. For instance, schools that receive funding through programs like Title I must adhere to certain rules and regulations. These guidelines can sometimes create what many consider “red tape.” For years, critics of the Department have argued that the bureaucracy tied to federal funding slows down school improvement efforts and imposes undue burdens on local administrators.

According to experts, the funding programs might survive, albeit in a different structure

Some policy experts suggest that even if the Department of Education were dissolved, the funding itself could continue—possibly in the form of block grants that offer more flexibility to local districts. But others warn that dismantling the department could result in a loss of essential oversight and services, especially for students with special needs.

What Happens to Federal Education Programs?

Interestingly, many of the funding programs the Department of Education oversees—particularly Title I and IDEA—were in place before the agency itself existed. This raises the question: Would these programs disappear if the department were abolished?

According to experts, the funding programs might survive, albeit in a different structure. Congress, which ultimately controls federal spending, has historically resisted efforts to cut education funding, even during budget negotiations when past presidents proposed cuts. Many believe that, even if the Department were to close its doors, the political and public support for these funding streams would likely push them into different agencies or programs.

Can Congress Actually Abolish the Department of Education?

While Trump’s rhetoric may have made abolition sound simple, shutting down a federal agency is no small feat. It would require an act of Congress—a challenge that previous efforts have failed to overcome. Even President Ronald Reagan, shortly after the department’s creation in 1980, proposed its elimination but eventually backed down due to lack of congressional support. The Trump administration also tried to merge the Education and Labor Departments, but that effort stalled in Congress.

Even if the GOP gains unified control of Washington in the coming years, it remains uncertain whether there will be enough support to completely dismantle the Department of Education.

The Road Ahead

So, what would an America without the Department of Education look like? In reality, it’s likely that some form of federal oversight and funding would continue, but the shape of it could change significantly. If Congress and the president were to act, the most likely outcome would be a shift in how federal funds are distributed—potentially with fewer strings attached—and a reorganization of some of the department’s key functions.

While Trump’s rhetoric may have made abolition sound simple, shutting down a federal agency is no small feat. It would require an act of Congress

Ultimately, the debate about whether to abolish the Department of Education touches on much larger issues: how to balance federal power with state autonomy, how to fund public schools fairly, and how to ensure that all students, regardless of background, have access to a high-quality education.

As the conversation continues, one thing is clear: any significant change to the Department of Education would have profound implications for the future of education in America, particularly for its most vulnerable students. Whether that future is shaped by a more decentralised approach or by a reformed federal agency remains to be seen. But one thing is for sure—the stakes are high.

In a major development for knee rehabilitation, researchers at Indian Institute of Technology (IIT) Ropar have introduced a revolutionary, low-cost solution to make Continuous Passive Motion (CPM) therapy more accessible to patients. The team’s newly patented innovation, the Completely Mechanical Passive Motion Machine for Knee Rehabilitation, is set to transform post-surgical recovery, especially in resource-limited areas.

Unlike traditional motorized CPM devices, which are expensive and reliant on electricity, the new machine operates entirely through mechanical means. Utilizing a piston and pulley system that stores air as the user pulls a handle, the device enables smooth, controlled knee motion to aid in rehabilitation. This design eliminates the need for electricity, batteries, or motors, making the machine lightweight, portable, and environmentally friendly.

The mechanical CPM machine addresses a key barrier to knee therapy: the high cost and power dependence of conventional electric machines. It offers a viable alternative for patients, particularly in rural and off-grid areas, where access to electricity is often unreliable. Its portability also enables patients to continue their therapy at home, reducing the need for frequent hospital visits or prolonged stays.

Knee rehabilitation is crucial for patients recovering from surgeries, as CPM therapy helps improve joint mobility, reduce stiffness, and speed up recovery. With this new device, IIT Ropar’s researchers are offering a cost-effective, sustainable option that could improve the lives of countless patients, especially in India, where advanced medical technology can be scarce in rural regions.

Lead researcher Dr. Abhishek Tiwari, along with his team members Suraj Bhan Mundotiya and Dr. Samir C. Roy, expressed optimism about the machine’s potential. “This device has the power to revolutionize knee rehabilitation, particularly in areas where access to sophisticated medical equipment is limited. It’s designed to be an affordable and eco-friendly solution that not only aids in recovery but also minimizes environmental impact,” said Dr. Tiwari.

The introduction of this innovative mechanical CPM machine marks a significant step toward democratizing healthcare and improving rehabilitation outcomes globally.

Ratan Tata, India’s most admired industrialist who passed away on October 9, 2024, has left behind an indelible legacy that extends well beyond the business sector, profoundly influencing education and scientific advancement in India. His visionary outlook emphasized the transformative potential of knowledge, reinforcing his belief that education is essential for societal growth.

Throughout his life, Tata, the man who built a business empire with revenue of $165 billion, was deeply committed to empowering future generations. Through Tata Trusts, he championed philanthropic initiatives aimed at supporting students from economically disadvantaged backgrounds, offering scholarships that allow them to pursue higher education both domestically and internationally. This commitment reflects his conviction that education should be accessible to all, serving as a vital pathway to opportunity.

Among his significant contributions is the establishment of Tata Scholarships at prestigious institutions such as Cornell University, which facilitate access to top-tier education for deserving Indian students. Tata’s vision also led to the founding of key educational institutions within India, including the Tata Institute of Social Sciences (TISS) and the Tata Institute of Fundamental Research (TIFR). These institutions play a crucial role in nurturing talent and fostering innovative thinking.

In 2014, Tata Trusts, which controls majority stake in Tata Sons, made a significant contribution of $9 million to the Centre for Neuroscience at IISc, aimed at advancing vital research into Alzheimer’s disease.

Under his guidance, the Tata Group greatly increased its investment in research and development, laying the groundwork for India’s rise as a global technology leader. Tata’s focus on innovation not only addressed market demands but also created a foundation for trailblazing advancements that have the potential to transform industries.

One of Tata’s most impactful legacies in science is his unwavering support for leading educational and research institutions. The Indian Institute of Science (IISc) in Bengaluru, which has roots in Jamshedji Tata’s vision, continued to thrive under Ratan Tata’s leadership.  A government agency recently ranked IISc as India’s top university.

In 2014, Tata Trusts, which controls majority stake in Tata Sons, made a significant contribution of $9 million to the Centre for Neuroscience at IISc, aimed at advancing vital research into Alzheimer’s disease. This initiative shows his belief in the importance of scientific inquiry and its potential to tackle pressing societal challenges.

In the fields of genetics and biotechnology, Tata’s foresight led to the creation of the Tata Institute for Genetics and Society at the University of California, San Diego

Tata’s dedication to advancing scientific research is further highlighted by the establishment of specialized centres addressing societal needs. The Tata Centre for Technology and Design at IIT Bombay and the MIT Tata Centre of Technology and Design were created to develop engineering solutions for resource-limited communities. These initiatives not only stimulate innovation but also connect academic research with practical applications, ensuring that scientific progress serves society.

In the fields of genetics and biotechnology, Tata’s foresight led to the creation of the Tata Institute for Genetics and Society at the University of California, San Diego, with a substantial $70 million donation. This institute conducts cutting-edge research in genetics, gene editing, and stem cell therapy, placing India at the forefront of global genetic studies.

Tata’s commitment to environmental sustainability is reflected in his support for research at the University of New South Wales Faculty of Engineering, focusing on developing water purification technologies for underserved regions. This dedication highlights his belief in the capacity of science to create sustainable solutions for pressing global challenges.

As India reflects on the loss of this influential leader, Ratan Tata’s enduring legacy in education and science serves as a powerful reminder of his vision. His initiatives have positively impacted around 3.6 million students and teachers across 26 states and 145 districts in India, helping to shape a future where knowledge and innovation drive societal advancement. Ratan Tata’s life and work inspire us to recognize that true success is measured not just by business achievements, but by the positive change we bring to the world through education and research.

Tata’s Education

Ratan Tata’s educational journey began at Campion School in Mumbai, India’s financial capital, where he studied until the 8th grade. He then attended several prestigious institutions, including Cathedral and John Connon School in Mumbai, Bishop Cotton School in Shimla, and Riverdale Country School in New York City, from which he graduated in 1955. Following high school, he pursued higher education at Cornell University, earning a bachelor’s degree in architecture in 1959.

During his time at Cornell, Tata joined the Alpha Sigma Phi Fraternity. In recognition of his commitment to education, he made a historic contribution of $50 million to the university in 2008, marking him as the largest international donor in its history. Additionally, Tata furthered his studies by completing the Advanced Management Program at Harvard Business School in 1975.