PANAJI
A day after the Goa government launched an inquiry into Shree Mahalaxmi Primary School, run by Mushtifund Saunstha, for allegedly implementing NCERT books for Grade 4 without approval, the school management admitted probable lapses but promised corrective measures.
Speaking for the institution, Dilip Dharwadkar said the school had relied on a government circular that mentioned both NCERT and SCERT textbooks. “As per the circular, we used NCERT books. Now that SCERT has set common papers, we will request the concerned authority and ensure no students are affected,” he said.
Dharwadkar conceded possible shortcomings in implementation, stating, “I cannot hold the headmistress totally responsible, but there might have been lapses. We will ensure no child will suffer academically.”
He appealed to the parents not to panic, saying the government’s decision would be conveyed to them.
The controversy surrounds the introduction of NCERT textbooks, even though SCERT has already prescribed its syllabus and is conducting a centralized common summative examination.
SCERT Director Meghana Shetgaonkar on Thursday said the NEP steering committee headed by the Secretary Education will investigate the matter. She also warned that any deviation from the approved syllabus would be taken “seriously.”
According to sources, at a parents-teachers meeting on Saturday, the school headmistress admitted the school had introduced NCERT books without training its teachers. She said a government decision on the current issue was expected by September 17.
Officials warned the mismatch could affect pupils’ performance, with Grade 4 semester exams beginning on October 9. For the first time this year, SCERT will set common question papers for Classes III to VIII across Goa.
The State is rolling out National Education Policy 2020, which currently covers Grade I to III, VI, IX and X. Class IV has not yet been brought under the NCERT framework.
