the goan I network
PANAJI
Continuing with the trend, the enrolment in government primary schools across the State has declined further, this year too. Statistics by State Directorate of Education (DoE) reveal that the number of children studying in government primary schools in the last five years has decreased by nearly 9000, indicating that on an average the enrolment reduces by 1800 students every year.
During the on-going monsoon session of the State Legislative Assembly, Chief Minister Manohar Parrikar had stated on the Floor of the House that the number of students in government primary schools in the last three years has shown a sign of slight increase. However, the statistics by DoE state otherwise.
The enrolment in government primary schools which was 30,350 students in 2012-13, declined to 28,901 students in 2013-14 and further declined to 25,293 in 2014-15. The trend continued in the following years with the enrolment coming down to 23,358 in 2015-16, 22,056 in 2016-17. During the current academic year 2017-18 the enrolment witnessed a decline further with the total number of students enrolled being 21,214 students.
On the contrary, the enrolment in government aided schools has witnessed an increase of nearly 10,000 students in the last five years. The enrolment which was 39,714 students in 2012-13 has increased to 49,300 in 2016-17.
Speaking to The Goan, an education expert pointed out that these statistics indicate that government primary schools are struggling to maintain their minimum strength of students.
"The enrolment is dropping gradually may be due to the factors like poor quality of education and instruction being imparted. General perception among parents is that private aided schools are better and impart quality education," said the expert.
Education officials however are hopeful that the enrolment will take some time to increase. "We have already refurbished the infrastructure in many government primary schools through Goa State Infrastructure Development Corporation (GSIDC).
Also the Government has appointed English teachers in these schools for the benefit of students. There are various other schemes implemented through which raincoats, uniforms, notebooks, mid-day meals are being provided to students. The enrolment will not increase overnight, but it will definitely take some time," said the official on condition of anonymity.
