Daijiworld Media Network – Mangaluru

Mangaluru, May 9: Driven by the growing preference for English-medium education and increasing interest in competitive examinations, the number of CBSE (Central Board of Secondary Education) and ICSE (Indian Certificate of Secondary Education) schools in Dakshina Kannada (DK) district has been on the rise. In the last two years, more than 15 schools have moved away from the state syllabus and upgraded to these national-level boards.

Earlier, government schools under the state syllabus largely prioritized Kannada medium, while private schools gradually shifted towards English medium instruction. However, with heightened enthusiasm among parents and a growing inclination among students towards competitive exams, many state syllabus schools are now opting for upgrades. In the current academic year, around 70 CBSE schools are functioning in the district, along with more than six ICSE schools. Additionally, two IGCSE (International General Certificate of Secondary Education) schools are also offering education in the district.

The steady rise in CBSE and ICSE schools over the past two years reflects changing educational priorities. Both parents and educational institutions have put forward their own reasons for this shift. National-level entrance examinations such as NEET and JEE are largely based on the NCERT syllabus, which aligns with the curriculum followed in CBSE and ICSE schools. This makes it easier for students from these schools to prepare for such exams, according to many.

Another key factor is the mobility of families due to employment. Parents who move from one state to another find it easier to enrol their children in schools with a uniform national syllabus, ensuring continuity in education. Moreover, CBSE and ICSE education is widely recognized at the international level, making it beneficial for students aspiring to pursue higher education abroad.

The curriculum in these boards is updated periodically and emphasizes practical learning rather than rote memorization. Schools affiliated with these boards are also known for adopting modern teaching methods, including smart classrooms, well-equipped laboratories, and advanced technology in education.

In Dakshina Kannada, CBSE schools are distributed across various regions, with seven in Bantwal, three in Beltangady, 20 in Mangaluru North, 27 in Mangaluru South, seven in Moodbidri, two in Puttur, and two in Sullia. ICSE schools include two in Mangaluru North, one in Mangaluru South, one in Sullia, one in Beltangady, and one in Moodbidri. The two IGCSE schools in the district are located in Mangaluru North.