Suggests five points to be considered before implementation of NEP by taking all state holders into confidence.
NOTE: As the President of Goa Forward Party, and as an elected representative of the people in the State Legislative Assembly, lhave been inundated with calls from anxious parents, after articles on the National Education Policy (NEP) appeared in today’s newspapers. The statement made by the Secretary (Education) , indicating the postponement of the academic year to July 3rd for want of ‘breathing space’, raises doubts about the government’s preparedness in implementing the NEP. This postponement suggests uncertainty, and a lack of diligence, and calls into question the government’s ability to effectively execute the NEP’s proposed changes and methodologies.
It was reported that Secretary Education stated that “we have to start at some point”, which to me sounds very irrational and arbitrary. The implementation of the NEP without a well-defined syllabus or teaching materials is akin to setting sail on a voyage without proper seafaring equipment or navigational tools, and can lead to unpredictable and disastrous consequences. lt can compromise the academic progress of the students, and seriously jeopardise their future.
The statement made by the secretary, indicating the absence of a teaching or structural syllabus, and the lack of books for first and second-grade students, is deeply concerning. Such remarks create confusion, and cause distress to parents who rely on a clear educational framework to manage their children’s learning process. lt is imperative that we address these concerns, and ensure adequate planning and preparation, before moving forward.
It’s important that the secretary provide clarity on these matters, and assure parents that there will be an effective teaching methodology in place that leads to well-defined learning outcomes, to ensure the academic progress of students. This is essentialto alleviate the concerns and anxieties of the parents who play an active role in their children’s education.
Furthermore, the government’s preparedness to implement the NEP must be thoroughly assessed. As I have mentioned above, the postponement of the academic year for the sake of ‘breathing space’raises doubts about the government’s level of preparedness. Due diligence on this front will not only enhance the effectiveness of the implementation but also instill confidence in parents and other stakeholders.
Given these concerns, I urge you to take the following actions:
1-. Postponement of NEP lmplementation: given the obvious lack of preparedness, and the concerns raised by stakeholders, it is imperative that the NEP implementation is postponed to the next academic year. This will allow sufficient time for comprehensive planning, teacher training, curriculum development, and stakeholder engagement to ensure a smooth and successfultransition to the NEP.
2. Transparent review of implementation strategies: I request you to provide to the public, detailed implementation strategies for the NEP. This includes clear guidelines on teaching methodologies, learning outcomes, curriculum design, and assessment frameworks. Public consultation and the inclusion of academicians and experts in the review process are crucial to developing a robust and wellinformed implementation plan.
3. Comprehensive Teacher Training: to ensure the effective implementation of the NEP, it is essential to provide teachers with comprehensive and extended training progra ms, focussing on new teaching methodologies, assessment practices, and integration of technology in education. Teachers should be given adequate time to practice and refine their skills, provide feedback, and adapt their strategies to suit the diverse needs of students, including that of urban and rural students, and also that of local, and poor migrant students.
4. Parental Awareness Programs: conduct informative seminars and workshops for parents to familiarise them with the NEP’s objectives, teaching methodologies, and assessment practices. These programs should empower parents with the necessary knowledge and tools to actively support their children’s education, assess their learning progress, and foster a positive home learning environment.
5. Grant provisional approval for pre-primary schools for this academic year: I would like to bring to your attention the unfairness of the May 31st deadline given to preprimary schools to register, considering that the students have already taken admission in these schools. I request the Government to notify rules and guidelines for pre-primary schools and provide sufficient time for compliance. Addressing these concerns and implementing our suggested recommendations willensure a smoother and more successful implementation of the NEP in Goa. By actively involving all stakeholders and prioritising the interests of our students, we can build a progressive and inclusive education system that nurtures their holistic development. I will draw the government’s attention on this issue in the upcoming monsoon session of the Goa Legislative Assembly. lf the NEP is implemented in a manner that causes stress on the students and their parents, the department will be held accountable on the floor of the house. I anticipate your prompt action and look forward to a positive response for the sake of our children’s future.