Staff Reporter
Ponda
Headmaster of GVM’s RPRS High School, Ramnathi, Bandora, Dattatray Naik submitted his objections over the proposed amendment to Rule 21 of the Goa Education Rules, 1986, to the Education Department, citing detailed reasons against the change.
The proposed amendments are to bring changes to the academic calendar for different classes, including commencing the academic year for Classes VI to X and Class XII in April, and concluding in March.
Naik said that the government’s decision to reopen schools in April 2025 was taken hastily, without consulting key stakeholders adding, “Neither headmasters, teachers, parents, nor management were considered before arriving at this decision.”
Citing India Meteorological Department (IMD) data, Naik said that the period from March 25 to May 25 is typically the hottest, with a high possibility of heat waves.
He also said that the National Education Policy (NEP) 2020 promotes holistic learning and critical thinking rather than rote learning, and the existing provision of 220 working days under Rule 21 of the Goa Education Rules already aligns with these requirements. “We are already working for 1,200 hours as per the existing structure, so there is no need for an amendment,” he said.
Naik also cited infrastructure challenges, stating that 90% of schools in the state lack adequate facilities to operate in April. He also raised concerns about the feasibility of conducting annual gatherings, sports events, and transitioning students to the next class without result declarations.
“April is essential for students to focus on enrichment activities and for teachers to complete corrections, prepare results, form class divisions, and finalise timetables,” he said, adding, “The six-week summer vacation mandated under Rule 21 is crucial for students to develop life skills outside the school environment and for teachers, who receive only 10 earned leave days and eight casual leave days annually.”
