Team Herald

PANJIM: Chief Minister Manohar Parrikar stressed on the need for quality education stating it is lacking in the present system. 

Speaking in the Assembly on Thursday, Parrikar, who also holds the Education portfolio said, “Education is the future. Even if after all attempts to raise its quality fails, it would be a major letdown.” He said this as he paid condolence to former chief minister late Shashikala Kakodkar, who had special interest in upgrading the standard of education in the State. 

Commenting on the Medium of Instruction, he said, “The controversy is essentially because the government has failed to provide quality education, which parents are looking for.”

As he prepares to present the Budget on Friday, Parrikar cited that the first Budget under then CM Dayanand Bandodkar had allotted 17 percent GDP to education.

“The first Budget allotted 17 percent GDP component in the education sector. Today experts say that 6 percent is enough. The spending has to be done in a proper manner focusing on its quality,” he added. Parrikar also applauded Kakodkar for carrying forward her father Bandodkar’s legacy. “I see her as my guide, my philosopher,” he said. 

In a lighter vein he said he was happy that no MLA, who was made minister demanded the Education portfolio. “Even if anyone would have asked for it, I would not have given the portfolio to anyone,” he added, mentioning that Finance is another favourite.  “State’s Finance Minister is crucial. I would have not have given Finance too to anyone, because financial management is an art. I like to play with figures although it should not be taken in the wrong sense. The State’s financial condition should be tackled properly,” he commented.