It is learnt that the All Goa Secondary School Teachers’ Association (AGSSTA) has strongly opposed changes to the academic calendar which include starting the academic year in April instead of June. The association has warned that these changes will negatively impact the overall education system in Goa. While the start of the new academic year from April 1 will affect the working schedule of the teachers, thought should also be given to the trauma students will have to undergo. After burning the midnight oil during the examination as students try to excel at the exams, they look forward to a well-deserved vacation along with family. Imagine the student’s plight if the vacation plans have to be shelved as the new academic year commences immediately. Students will not be mentally prepared to go to the next class. Imagine having vacation in May, just after one month of the school reopening. More than the high temperatures and humidity in April, which will cause discomfort, dehydration and reduced focus in the classrooms, the change in the academic year will have a huge psychological impact on the students. Hence it is for the Parent-Teacher Association (PTA) in every school to voice their concerns.
