In 2010 a report was presented by the HRD ministry in which the infrastructure in elementary government schools in Goa was shown as to have improved drastically. We are better in terms of having self-owned buildings, classrooms, drinking water availability, separate toilets for girls and some other criteria.
But we need to think twice. In comparison to other states we are a tiny state with just two districts and lesser population per area. The criteria mentioned that we are better in terms of having minimum two classrooms doesn’t sound right. It is a part of good governance to provide a good atmosphere with quality education to all sections in society.
Good standards of classrooms, with one each for every class, quality laboratories, drinking water, toilets and good layout with grounds for extracurricular activities is highly recommended.
Increasing privatization has increased risks of less attention of government on schools particularly in villages. Also, the economically weaker sections are forced to admit their children in government schools.
I strongly suggest that the Education department allocate special funds in the budget and immediately take steps to renovate or take up new projects in interest of society so that all students may be able to have the same level of education. This will bring a balance between poor and rich, intelligent and less intelligent.
Akbar Khan, Colvale
