Staff Reporter
Margao
Stating that several issues will arise in the implementation of the National Education Policy (NEP) 2020, former Benaulim MLA Churchill Alemao has called on Chief Minister Pramod Sawant to resolve them and accordingly revise the academic schedule.
Expressing deep concern regarding the planned changes to the academic schedule and the implementation of NEP in the state, Alemao said the plan to commence the academic year from April 1 had triggered anxiety and raised questions among parents and students.
He said the schedule appeared to contradict the fundamental principles outlined in the NEP 2020 and the National Curriculum Framework for School Education (NCFSE) 2023. The absence of clear and detailed instructions regarding the promotion of Class IX students during this academic year is causing immense mental stress and uncertainty, he added.
“The current language formula being implemented appears to contradict the principles of NEP 2020, particularly its emphasis on multilingualism and flexibility. This needs immediate rectification. The rushed implementation of these changes may inadvertently deny children their ‘Right to Opportunity’ disrupting their learning processes and causing unnecessary stress,” he said in a letter to the CM.
He also said that there was a lack of a clear and convincing rationale for the hurried shift in the academic year calling it deeply concerning and urged the government to provide a transparent explanation supported by evidence-based reasoning. The planning and execution of NEP implementation in Class IX for the 2024-25 academic year are perceived as “disastrous,” raising serious concerns about the quality of education being provided, he added.
“It is imperative that the government engage in a meaningful dialogue with parents, educators, and education experts to address these concerns and ensure a smooth and effective implementation of NEP 2020. The well-being and academic success of our children are paramount,” said Alemao.
