Team Herald
MARGAO: Parents in Goa have mounted a formidable campaign against the proposed changes to the school academic calendar, gathering at least 13,361 signatures as of March 18 to challenge the early start of the academic year. The grassroots movement has rapidly gained traction across the state's educational community.
Activist and parent Cecille Rodrigues has spearheaded an online petition urging authorities to reconsider the hurried implementation of the National Education Policy (NEP) 2020's proposed academic calendar changes. The petition argues that the proposed modifications fundamentally clash with both the NEP and the National Curriculum Framework for School Education (NCFSE) 2023 guidelines.
The campaign's reach is extensive, with signatures collected through multiple channels. By March 18, parents had submitted 246 emails from parents and PTA heads, 109 physical copies delivered to the Directorate of Education, and launched an online petition on March 23 that quickly amassed 5,000 signatures and continues to grow.
While the government initially reported receiving around 200 objections, the parent-led campaign reveals a dramatically different picture, with over 13,361 signatures demonstrating widespread opposition to the proposed changes. The opposition extends beyond parents, gaining significant support from key educational stakeholders.
Both the headmaster’s association and teachers’ association have submitted their own objections and suggestions, underscoring the broad-based resistance to the government’s proposal to start the school year on April 1.
The proposed changes would dramatically alter the academic year, attempting to shift the start from the traditional June to April, affecting students from classes 1 to 12. The extended deadline for objections until March 27 provides further opportunity for parents to voice their concerns, with campaigners expecting the signature count to increase even further.
The High Court of Bombay at Goa has already acknowledged the need for careful consideration, noting the importance of proper notification and consultation in amending the Goa School Education Act. As the March 27 deadline approaches, parents remain hopeful that their collective voice will prompt a reconsideration of the proposed changes.