Experts ask private schools to follow govt schools on Gandhi Jayanti celebrations

PIONEER EDGE NEWS SERVICE/Dehradun

Experts have suggested that to foster nationalism, private schools should also organise flag-hoisting ceremonies for students similar to those held by government schools on Gandhi Jayanti.  Traditionally, private schools observe a holiday on the occasion of Gandhi Jayanti (October 2) whereas government schools invite students to the flag-raising event in the school. Given this disparity, experts have raised concerns and urged authorities to instruct private schools to adopt the same practice for the overall development of their students.

Former additional director of the State Council for Educational Research and Training (SCERT) and chief education officer of Dehradun, Pradeep Rawat said that government schools encourage students to attend school on Gandhi Jayanti for flag hoisting, honouring those who have contributed significantly to the nation.

He stated that private schools do not adhere to this approach. Rawat said that declaring a holiday on Gandhi Jayanti hampers student growth by undermining their motivation, self-decision-making abilities and other critical aspects. In light of this, he called on the authorities to issue guidelines for private schools to refrain from observing a holiday on that day, advocating instead for the promotion of nationalism among students.

Additionally, another educator, who teaches at a government school Madhu Dimri has voiced similar concerns regarding private schools declaring a holiday on Gandhi Jayanti. She emphasised that besides focusing solely on academics, imparting moral values and highlighting historical lessons are equally important. In this context, she urged the authorities to provide direction for private schools on this matter as well.

The former president of the teacher association at SCERT Uttarakhand, Ankit Joshi said that it is mandatory for students to attend school on Gandhi Jayanti in government schools where they learn about the life and history related to Mahatma Gandhi. However, it has been observed that private schools have not followed this concept. “Instead of relying solely on directions from the government, private school administrations should take responsibility themselves and recognise the importance of this practice to help boost nationalism among students,’’ he said.