PANAJI
Notwithstanding the concern raised by a group of parents and parent-teacher associations (PTAs), the State government has decided to go ahead with the commencement of the new Academic Year 2025-26 from April 1, instead of the first week of June.
Speaking to media persons, Director Education Shailesh Zingade said the department has not received any objection from schools or teachers but some parents have made representation.
“Everyone has got their opinion. But as of now, as decided, our academic year will commence from April 1,” he said, adding that the students' feedback was also sought on this.
From April 1, the classes will resume for students of Class VI to X and XII, and it will be till 11.30 am only. This adjustment will align the State board schools with the Central Board of Secondary Education (CBSE) calendar, where the academic year commences in April and ends on March 31.
Moreover, for students up to Grade V, the classes will resume post summer vacation that is from June 4. The secondary and higher secondary students will have a month-long summer break from May 1 to June 3.
Zingade said that the decision was taken following a report submitted by an expert committee and which was accepted by the government.
A group of PTAs, across the State, recently submitted representations to Chief Minister, Secretary Education and Director Education pointing out that neither they nor any other stakeholders were consulted or taken into confidence before taking such a major decision. They also said that they welcome National Education Policy (NEP) 2020 but oppose its hurried implementation.
Parents said that during the summer vacation in April-May, children used to indulge in additional enrichment programmes like coaching camps in various sports, and skill-based learning, apart from other relaxing activities.
