PORVORIM
Objecting to the start of the school academic year on April 1 as it would an adverse impact on students, a group of parents from across the State have demanded that the government reverts to the old format of the academic year which starts in June.
A memorandum putting forth their concerns and demands was submitted to Chief Minister Pramod Sawant and Director of Education Shailesh Zingade at Porvorim on Thursday.
Speaking to media persons after their interaction with Zingade, Cecille Rodrigues, who spoke on behalf of the parents, said the parents do appreciate the intent behind the New Education Policy (NEP) to reform the education system.
“We, however, believe that the current implementation process in Goa is misguided, lacks transparency and fails to address the unique needs and concerns of their children,” said Rodrigues.
“In the first place, there has been a lack of consultation with stakeholders. The implementation process has been rushed with inadequate consultation with parents, teachers and other stakeholders.”
“Secondly, most schools in Goa lack the necessary infrastructure such as enough wash rooms, water drinking facilities and other amenities, resources and trained teachers to effectively implement the NEP 2020.”
Rodrigues also pointed out that April is one of the hottest months in Goa with high temperatures and humidity, thereby creating extremely uncomfortable and unhygienic conditions for students and teachers.
“Moreover, many places face water shortage and power cuts during this time of the year. Students and teachers are accustomed to the traditional start of the academic year in June, which is aligned with Goa’s climatic and cultural conditions. A sudden change will disrupt their mental and physical readiness leading to unnecessary mental stress and confusion,” said Rodrigues.
The parents also questioned the need to align Goa's academic calendar with CBSE/ICSE when neither NEP 2020 nor NCFSE 2023 makes it mandatory.
"Goa's existing school calendar already meets the recommended instructional hours without changing the schedule," they said.
Rodrigues also pointed out that the language formula by the directorate of education through its circular dated February 13 denies students to choose a language of their choice.
“There is no provision to choose a foreign language as per the circular issued and this is against the principles of NEP 2020 which provides for flexibility. Removing the option to study a foreign language limits students exposure and reduces opportunities in different fields. Students should be allowed to study the foreign languages that have been offered so far,” said Rodrigues.
She added that there is no law of the central government that mandates a hurried/rushed change to start the academic year in April.
“To start the academic year on April 1, just two days after the final exam on March 28 without a break to refresh the minds of the students is going to be a Disaster,” Rodrigues added.
