Educationists across state hail edu reforms

Ranchi/Bokaro: University heads, prominent academicians and principals of various schools in Jharkhand have allplauded the National Education Policy (NEP) saying it is all-inclusive, research-oriented and futuristic.
Ranchi University vice-chancellor (VC) Dr Ramesh Pandey welcomed the NEP and said it aims at identifying and fortifying the unique capabilities of students.He said the emphasis is on wholesome development, including academic and non-academic. “There is more flexibility in permitting students chose subjects according to their talent and interest,” he said
Central University of Jharkhand VC Dr Nand Kumar Yadav said the policy is all-inclusive and will turn India into a global education hub. He stated, “The decision to raise the allotment to education to 6% of the GDP was a much-awaited move. The NEP has all the elements to create research and innovation opportunities and turn India into an education powerhouse.”
Yadav said the provision for a four-year graduation course after a strong foundation course at school level will give remarkable results. Stating that many students face problems in completing graduation, he said they can now avail the chance to exit at any year and re-enter later on.
Reiterating similar views, National University of Study and Research in Law (NUSRL) associate professor and dean of faculty Sangita Laha said the multiple exit options in graduation programme will give students the leverage and flexibility in learning. She said students will have an opportunity to pursue their interest along with their professional course.
Educationinsts said the new policy is atractive for school students as well. Jawahar Vidya Mandir Shyamli principal Samarjit Jana said it will be good to provide primary education to children in their local languages as it would reduce the unnecessary stress on them.
Paramjit Kaur of Sarla Birla Public School said the policy aims to promote critical and analytical thinking among students and this was envisaged by the CBSE board as well. She said, “The students will be able to take decisions early in their careers and can work on achieving them with a more focused approach.”
In Bokaro, Pentecostal Assembly School principal Dr Karuna Prasad said the use of technology in education will be beneficial for students as they step into the job market. “With more room for critical thinking and creativity, students will now get holistic development opportunities. The emphasis and provision for appropriate Teacher Education will be vital,” she said.
Mar Gregorios Memorial (MGM) Higher Secondary School principal Fr. Reji.C.Varghese said policymakers should be serious in implementing the policy in letter and spirit. “We should also work to change our present board exam and entrance exam patterns to end the rat race for marks and the grip of coaching mafia on the students,” he said.
Educationists also believe that,a majority of students are unable to handle the pressure of even one year syllabus to appear in the board exams. “In this situation they will feel relaxed and will enjoy learning as the subjects will be of their choice,” said Sree Ayyappa Public School director S S Mahapatra