Retain 2-language policy, scrap boards for classes 5 and 8, say academicians

Chennai

The experts also urged the State government to convene a special session to discuss the new policy, hold consultations widely and declare its stand on the matter.

Tamil Nadu Teachers Association State President PK Ilamaran said the introduction of a new policy after 34 years recognised the need for change in education. This is a fundamental requirement to lead the country on the path of progress for the future, he added. However, though many changes it suggested were welcome, some of the suggestions amounted to denying social justice, he opined.

Opposing the proposal to conduct board exams for classes 3, 5 and 8, Ilamaran said, “The bilingual policy should be continued, as the trilingual policy will reduce the interest to study, especially among the rural children.”

On the proposal to introduce teachers’ promotions and appointment to higher posts on merit basis, he said it should be on the basis of seniority.

In a letter to Chief Minister Edappadi K Palaniswami, State Platform for Common School System – TN (SPCSS-TN) general secretary PB Prince Gajendra Babu said implementation of NEP 2020 would deprive the rights of governments to frame their policies or enact laws concerning education as per the needs and aspirations of the people of the State.

Till date, Tamil Nadu government has not expressed its stand on the policy, he said. “Before the State government decides on the issue, teachers - who are the employees of the State - are asked to give suggestions for the policy implementation process,” he pointed out. “The State government should hold wide consultations and announce its stand on the NEP,” he said, adding that the government should convene a session to discuss NEP 2020.