Implementation of New Education Policy Threatens Weakening of Public Education System, Warns HGVS

Students and Education Oct. 30, 2023, 7:04 p.m.
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A state-level conference convened as part of the "Save Education Save Country" campaign took place at Saakshatra Bhawan, Sauli Khad, Mandi. This event was organized by the Himachal Gyan Vigyan Samiti and chaired by Virendra Kapoor. In addition to the Gyan Vigyan Samiti, the conference saw participation from teachers, students, women, and 250 individuals representing various organizations affiliated with the education sector.

The conference was inaugurated by the renowned educationist and former president of Delhi University, Dr. Anita Rampaul. During the conference, Bajir Singh, former national secretary of the Haryana Gyan Vigyan Samiti and School Teachers Association, along with Dr. OP Bhureta, Gianand Sharma, and Bhim Singh from the Bharat Gyan Vigyan Samiti, presented proposals on various topics.

Dr. Anita Rampal emphasized the constitutional right to education, expressing concern that the new education policy could potentially deprive students of this right. In the previous policy, equal educational opportunities were granted to all. She highlighted that this policy was implemented without parliamentary discussion, using backdoor methods during the COVID-19 pandemic. Several states, including Kerala, Tamil Nadu, and Karnataka, have chosen not to implement this policy, and it is hoped that the Himachal Pradesh government will also take a stance on it.

Bajir Singh addressed the conference, highlighting the adverse impact of the new education policy on school education and teachers. He stressed the need for a robust movement against the policy and pointed out concerns about the distortion of history and science in the curriculum, as well as the promotion of privatization in education.

He asserted that the government should not rely on coercion and that mental subjugation is necessary. The BJP government is implementing this policy, which incorporates a wide range of subjects and introduces skill development courses at an early stage, potentially compromising the quality of education.

A "Save Education, Save Country" campaign was proposed to counter these issues, with Bhim suggesting an action plan. Additionally, protests were staged against the Himachal government's decision to limit schools to one within a 15-kilometer radius, and a memorandum will be submitted to the government, with the possibility of further protests.

Furthermore, it was decided to submit a demand letter to the state government regarding the new education policy in November. Conferences will be held in all districts until December 31st to protest the new education policy and strengthen the public education sector. Following this, a survey on education will be conducted in selected areas, with the data compiled to organize a comprehensive dialogue program at the state level in March. Based on the findings, proposals will be sent to the Central and State Governments.

A campaign committee consisting of 45 members was formed to conduct this initiative, alongside a 13-member working group. Professor Baldev Singh Negi from Himachal University was appointed as the coordinator, with Dr. Banita Saklani and Bhim Singh, along with several other individuals, serving as co-convenors and members of the working group. The campaign committee and working group include individuals from various organizations and fields, all united in their commitment to the cause.

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