The Gujarat education department has announced a new initiative called ‘No School Bag Day’ for primary students. This program starts on July 5 and aims to reduce stress on young learners. Educationists support this move, hoping it will lead to more enjoyable and experiential learning for children. However, the response has been mixed, with several challenges ahead.
According to a circular from the Gujarat Council of Educational Research and Training (GCERT), schools will have four ‘No Bag’ Saturdays and eight ‘Happy Saturdays’ each term. This plan applies to government, grant-in-aid, and self-financed schools affiliated with the Gujarat Board. The goal is to promote holistic development as suggested by the National Education Policy (NEP) 2020. On these special days, students will participate in various activities like yoga, cultural programs, games, music, and local trips.
Prakash Trivedi, the in-charge director of GCERT, highlighted that increasing screen time from mobile devices is harming students’ health. He believes that these ‘Happy Saturdays’ will help students engage in meaningful activities and reduce their dependence on screens.
However, not everyone is optimistic about the initiative. The Gujarat Pradesh Congress Committee (GPCC) has raised concerns about its feasibility. Spokesperson Manish Doshi pointed out that many government schools lack essential staff for extracurricular activities. He noted that there are no art, music, or physical education teachers in over 6,900 primary schools in Gujarat. Doshi questioned how schools could conduct activities on bagless days without adequate staff.
The GPCC also reported a significant shortage of teachers across the state, estimating a lack of around 40,000 teachers. They have called on the government to focus on hiring qualified staff instead of launching initiatives that may not be effective without proper support.
The No School Bag Day initiative aims to ease the burden of heavy school bags and promote a more enjoyable learning atmosphere. This initiative also aligns with the broader goals of the NEP, which seeks to reduce rote learning and encourage practical knowledge through field visits and hands-on experiences. Schools are expected to take students to cultural centers and historical sites to provide them with real-world experiences.
While the idea behind No School Bag Day is commendable, the lack of infrastructure and staff raises concerns. Many parents are also worried about the high fees for schools, which continue to rise. They feel that while students may benefit from a lighter load once a week, the financial burden remains a significant issue.
As the initiative draws closer, it will be crucial for the government to address these concerns. Ensuring that schools have the necessary staff and resources will be key to making No School Bag Day a success. The education department faces a challenge in transforming this idea into a reality that benefits all students across Gujarat.
With the right support and planning, No School Bag Day could become a valuable part of the educational experience in Gujarat. It has the potential to foster creativity, enjoyment, and a love for learning among young students, but only if the foundational issues are resolved.
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