PNS | DEHRADUN
The parents The Pioneer approached have shared mixed opinions regarding the Central government’s recent decision to abolish the no-detention policy for Classes V and VIII.
On Monday, a significant change in the primary education system was announced with the Centre having nixed this policy for the aforementioned classes. Defending this decision, the Centre had said that this would enhance learning outcomes for the students.
While some of the parents spoken to have lent their wholehearted support the rest have voiced their opposition.
Kamlesh Rawat appreciated the recent decision to discontinue the non-detention policy for students in classes V and VIII. “I am happy because I believe that this will motivate the students to take their studies more seriously as they will no longer have the assurance of promotion regardless of their academic effort. I am a father of two. I love to see my children study diligently and perform. We need improvement in the quality of learning. Promoting those who fail amounts to failing them in future life,” he added.
Another parent, Harish Kumar echoed the same view, stating that the termination of the non-detention policy would definitely enhance the learning process for children. “Promotional lollipops in the formative time of the children have been done away with for their betterment. I, as a parent, welcome it. The anxiety of being promoted to the next class with adequate preparation and learning will foster a positive increase in their academic seriousness. This will stand them in good stead in their future life,” he added.
However, the number of parents who articulated their opposition to the Central decision is not small either. And their logic carries weight, too.
Monisha Chauhan said that it would put undue pressure on the children to perform academically. “This is likely to have an adverse impact on the mental health of many, stunting their growth into adulthood. This pressure is dispensable. I am urging the Union Education Ministry to reconsider and withdraw the new rule on behalf of many worried parents in Doon,” she added.
When asked for opinion, a primary school teacher Avinash Khanna said that the authority’s decision was somewhat justified. “I believe that this will help develop the foundational skills of the students in primary grades. Further, this policy may instil a sense of responsibility among them which will show up later in their life,” he stated.
