PANAJI
A group of parents and parent-teacher associations (PTAs) from various schools met Chief Minister Pramod Sawant on Friday to oppose the decision to start the 2025-26 academic year in April instead of the first week of June.
The group had also met Education Director Shailesh Zingade on Thursday, demanding that the circular be withdrawn.
The parents told the Chief Minister that they, along with other stakeholders, were not consulted before making such a major decision. While they support the National Education Policy (NEP) 2020, they are against its rushed implementation.
“April is one of the hottest months in Goa, with high temperatures and humidity making it very uncomfortable and unhealthy for students and teachers. Many areas also face water shortages, power cuts, and electricity fluctuations during this time,” they said in their submission.
They also criticised the lack of transparency in implementing the NEP.
“Neither the education department nor schools have held meetings with parents to discuss the NEP 2020. Most schools do not have enough washrooms, drinking water facilities, or other basic amenities,” they pointed out.
Parents also raised concerns about the loss of summer vacation activities.
“During April and May, children usually take part in coaching camps, skill-based learning, and other recreational activities. Now, they will have to attend regular classes instead of choosing activities they enjoy,” they said.
