Varnasrama Education refers to the systems of varëa and äçrama as a self-contained educational institution based on the Vedic teachings which lead individuals and society at large towards the perfection of life, i. e. individual and social emancipation. It takes into account the fullness of the living entity, fulfilling his physical needs, his emotional, intellectual and social needs, as well as his spiritual needs.
This system of varna and äshrama is best practiced within an agrarian based society where life remains simple and time can be given for self-realization. Economic development no longer remains the main obsession or preoccupation of individuals and society. One should not wrongly conclude, however, that automatically individuals will become poor and that society will revert to primitiveness. Traditional village life was valued and still remains ideal in all respects, including the material aspects.
Varna education is based on “aptitude based learning” which leads to “aptitude based occupations”. Äshrama education teaches “phased lifelong learning”, from gradual awakening of consciousness to full self-realization. Varnasrama education is meant to be the norm and standard in society.