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Goa govt's proposal to start academic year in April faces backlash

  •   Wed, Jan 29 2025 08:46:16 AM

Daijiworld Media Network- Panaji

Panaji, Jan 29: The Goa education department's proposal to commence the school academic year from April 1 instead of the traditional June start has sparked widespread opposition from parents and teachers across the state.

Currently, Goa's academic year begins in the first week of June, coinciding with the onset of the monsoon, after a summer vacation that lasts through April and May. The proposed change suggests starting the academic year in April, followed by a one-month break in May, before resuming classes in June.

Concerns raised by teachers and parents
The proposal has drawn criticism due to Goa's hot and humid weather in April, which many argue is unsuitable for students and teachers.

“April is one of the hottest months in Goa, with high temperatures and humidity creating extremely uncomfortable and unhealthy conditions for students and teachers. Most schools lack proper cooling facilities, increasing the risk of dehydration, heat exhaustion, and reduced concentration in classrooms,” said Suraj Victoria, president of the All Goa Secondary School Teachers’ Association.

In a memorandum to the education department, the association highlighted how the traditional June start aligns better with Goa’s climatic conditions.

“Both students and teachers are accustomed to the June start, which provides a conducive learning environment during the cooler monsoon season. A sudden change will disrupt their readiness and lead to unnecessary stress,” the memorandum added.

Government’s perspective
Goa's education director, Shailesh Zingade, clarified that no final decision had been made.

“We have not issued any such instructions. The proposal was suggested by the NEP (National Education Policy) committee at the state level, and we are considering it,” Zingade explained.

Parents’ concerns
Parents also voiced concerns over the proposal, particularly for schools lacking infrastructure to cope with the summer heat.

“The government says they are doing this to align with the CBSE calendar. CBSE schools have the infrastructure and facilities to manage the heat, but state schools, many of which have tin roofs, are ill-equipped,” said Ana Clara Remedios, a parent and president of a parent-teacher association.

The move has ignited a debate, with stakeholders urging the government to carefully assess the impact before implementing such a significant change.

 
  

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Comment on this article

  • Keith, Mapusa

    Wed, Jan 29 2025

    There is more to life than academics. These days I don't see many children coming down to play, they are busy with projects, assignments, tuitions, etc. There's a famous saying 'all work and no play makes jack a dull boy'. How many students/teachers were consulted when the respected authorities made this decision to start academics in April? Is this freedom of education? Don't parents want what's best for their kids? My child goes to a Govn aided school, there are no ACs in the class rooms, the climate isn't going to get any better, it gets hotter by the year and this is an irreversible process. April May are the hottest months. I humbly request this decision be withdrawn and we stick to our regular academics. Also summer holidays are the only time we get to plan our outings, some parents work at sea and have to plan their holidays much in advance. Some of us need to book flight tickets and hotels. Sudden announcements to change the academics with 3 months notice seems like poor planning. Visiting new places, spending time with family, perusing hobbies, this is what everyone looks forward to and there's nothing wrong with this. Instead you want children to go to school for an extra month, I don't see any benefit in this.

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