the goan I network
MAPUSA
Questioning the decision to pour funds on building infrastructure for government primary schools, Deputy Speaker Michael Lobo on Thursday said money was virtually going down the drain as there were no takers for these schools in the State.
“The expenditure incurred to improve infra of government primary schools is a waste of money. There are no students in those schools. I think we are making a mistake,” Lobo said.
The deputy speaker was addressing a gathering of parents, teachers and students at the annual prize distribution function of Janata High School in Mapusa.
Continuing, Lobo said the government was investing almost Rs 15 lakh per school on infra but the quality of education in the government schools was going down.
“There’s one teacher who teaches from Class 1 to 4. How can we expect quality in such schools,” he questioned.
He said the government needed to bring major reforms in the education sector and stressed on developing anganwadis and village libraries across the State.
“Many times, we find anganwadis being operated from store rooms or small congested places, much to the annoyance of the parents,” he said.
He also stressed on the need to provide financial aid to all schools without any discrimination.
Stating that machines have replaced manpower, the Calangute MLA said getting jobs will be very difficult in future and advised parents not to force children to apply for government jobs.
Lobo disclosed that several youth who were graduates came to him for a peon’s job in the government.. “I appeal to parents not to insist on government jobs for your children,” he said.
To the school children, Lobo said dream big and work hard to make those dreams a success. “When I was of your age, I always wanted to be a businessman. I worked very hard and faced several hurdles to achieve my dream. If I am what I am today, it’s only because of my dream,” he said.
He urged the students to be entrepreneurs so that they can employ more hands.
Retired headmaster, Surendra Borkar was felicitated on the occasion.
