I am writing to express my thoughts on an issue that has long been a topic of concern among students, parents, and educators alike the length of the school week.
Specifically, I believe it is time for the Goa Board of Secondary and Higher Secondary Education, along with the State government to collaborate and to consider restructuring the school week to consist of only five days, from Monday to Friday.
In various countries across the Middle East, where the CBSE Board is widely adhered to Indian curriculum, the schooling structure here in the Middle East follows a five-day schedule i.e. (Sunday – Thursday), Friday & Saturday being weekends in the Middle East. This change would bring significant benefits for both students and teaching staff, contributing to a more balanced and productive educational environment.
Firstly, a five-day school week aligns better with the traditional workweek, allowing families to synchronise their schedules more effectively. This consistency is crucial for maintaining a stable routine, which research has shown to be beneficial for students’ mental health and academic performance. A Monday-to-Friday schedule would ensure that students have adequate time to rest over the weekend, returning to school refreshed and ready to learn. The two-day weekend will offer students the necessary respite, which is crucial for their overall well-being and extracurricular engagements.
Moreover, teachers would also benefit from this structure. The current varying schedules can lead to burnout, as educators often find themselves working extra hours to prepare lessons and grade assignments followed by post school log-book filling. A consistent five-day work week would provide teachers with more predictable time off, allowing them to recharge and ultimately deliver better quality education to their students, thus increasing the outcome in studies of the students.
Additionally, this change could lead to a more efficient use of resources within schools. With a standardised schedule, schools could better plan and allocate resources, and extracurricular activities, ensuring that all students have equal access to these opportunities.
Furthermore, a five-day school week aligns with modern educational practices observed in various parts of the world, where emphasis is placed not only on academic achievement but also on the overall well-being of students and educators. It would be a progressive step for a state like Goa, setting an example for other regions to follow.
I urge the Goa Board and the State Government to seriously consider and look into this proposal. It is an investment in the future of our students, the well-being of our educators, and the quality of education, as it has the potential to improve the overall quality of education in our country.
In conclusion, a Monday-Friday school schedule would create a more harmonious balance between academic demands and personal well-being for both students and teachers, as this will demonstrate the commitment to providing a balanced and holistic educational environment.