PANAJI
Questioning the hurried implementation of changes in the academic calendar, the All Goa Secondary School Teachers Association will soon be consulting the stakeholders to decide future course of action, if government goes ahead with its decision notwithstanding to the objection.
The Association, in a letter to Education Department has raised strong opposition to the proposed changes of commencing the academic year in April instead of June and extending school timings to 39 hours per week.
Speaking to The Goan, President of the Association Savio Suraj Victoria said that the government decision is not part of the National Education Policy (NEP) 2020, as the policy did not speak about changes in the academic calendar.
Victoria questioned the hurried implementation of the changes without putting the required infrastructure in place.
He said that the Association will consult all the stakeholders, especially parents teachers association, to decide future action.
“We believe these changes will adversely impact students, teachers, and the overall education system in Goa,” he said.
Association pointed out that most schools lack proper cooling facilities, increasing the risk of dehydration, heat exhaustion, and reduced concentration in classrooms.
As per government decision, the upcoming Academic Year 2025-26, is likely to commence from April as against the traditional June month. The Academic term will be from April to March instead of June to March.
Also, in the first phase, the government intends to implement the calendar change for secondary and higher secondary schools, with classes for the new academic year to be conducted from April 1 onwards, only till 11.30 am, considering the summer weather.
