It is learnt that the Directorate of Education has made it mandatory for labour contractors working in Goa to ensure that children of migrant workers below the age of 14 are admitted to schools, and as proof, a declaration has to be submitted to the District Collectors. The question that arises is whether this is a step in the right direction. It is true that children must not miss out on their education. However, it needs to be noted that migrant workers form a major part of the floating population in the State.
These workers could be employed by the contractors for a short period of time until the work is completed, or the work contract with the labourer is terminated for some reason. These workers could be migrating to other states in search of work. Hence, how can the children of migrant workers continue with education in a particular state? They would have to discontinue their studies in Goa once their parents migrate again. Then again, there is the question of the medium of education. These children could be studying in their mother tongue in their native state, and making them switch to a different medium of education in Goa could be unjust to the kids.
Making school mandatory for children of migrant workers may help the state decrease the number of out-of-school children, referring to those who are either not enrolled in school or have dropped out before finishing elementary education. However, making school mandatory for children of migrant workers could even encourage these workers to settle in Goa permanently. The population of Goa is bursting at its seams, and the state has reached beyond its carrying capacity. It is learnt that many out-of-school children are untraceable, and on enquiry, it was found that they have returned to their native places. The education aspect of children of migrant workers is best left to the rationale of the parents. More attention needs to be given to school dropouts of Goan parents.
