Team Herald
MARGAO: The Navelim-based Rosary Education Complex (REC) has rejected allegations made by the Navelim Civic and Consumer Forum (NCCF) regarding its proposed school extension, calling the claims baseless and misleading.
In a statement to O Heraldo, REC clarified that the extension aims to improve facilities for existing students, not to increase enrolment, as claimed by the NCCF. REC also stressed that the extension plan includes two levels of parking to address concerns about traffic congestion.
“First and foremost, we want to say that there was no storm that brewed in Navelim. Rather, we would say that whatever has been expressed (by those opposing) is baseless,” REC stated.
They said education is ‘the backbone of any progressive society’ and criticised the NCCF, alleging it was attempting to disrupt educational progress for ‘selfish gain’.
REC further claimed the NCCF’s opposition stemmed from ‘misleading tactics’ and was not representative of the larger community's support for educational development.
REC highlighted its long-standing contribution to education in the region, recalling that Rosary High School was established in 1962, followed by the higher secondary in 1988 and Rosary College in 1990.“For decades, these institutions have been a beacon of education, shaping the future of thousands of students across generations who will stand by the institution to reject any selfish attempts to hinder progress,” REC added.
Addressing concerns about traffic congestion, REC blamed an increasing number of residential complexes and businesses for the issue, not educational institutions. “The cause of traffic congestion is the massive boom in residential complexes and business enterprises in and around the area. This issue has to be addressed through systematic traffic management rather than needlessly objecting to educational development," REC stated.
They urged better utilisation of the Margao Western Bypass with additional feeder routes and traffic regulations to ease congestion.
REC explained that the extension aligns with the National Educational Policy (NEP) 2020, which mandates improved infrastructure and better learning environments. “The students require expanded facilities, including upgraded classrooms, laboratories, and libraries to provide quality education that meets national standards,” they said.
REC further rejected NCCF's claims that the extension lacked approvals. “The proposed extension of the school block has met specified regulations of all concerned civic authorities, which includes the village panchayat, the Town and Country Planning (TCP) Department, health department, conversion sanads, etc,” REC stated.
They also pointed out that the new block's parking provisions include both basement and ground-level parking. “The extension plan has provisions for two levels of parking, contrary to the statement made by the NCCF, which now stands exposed,” REC said.
Clarifying the purpose of the extension, REC maintained that it was not intended to increase student enrolment but to improve learning conditions for existing students. “The extension block is not meant to increase student enrolment but to provide better facilities for the existing students. It is but a necessary step to ensure that our children receive education in a comfortable and conducive environment,” REC explained.
REC accused the NCCF of spreading falsehoods and claimed the opposition appeared ‘personal in nature’ and driven by ‘vested interest’. “This makes it evident that their motives are driven by vested interest rather than genuine concern for the student community. The so-called reported storm by the NCCF has been stirred up in the teacup of one or two disgruntled elements,” they added.
Appealing to the public, REC said, “We would like to urge, as responsible members of society, that we remain vigilant against such deceitful tactics. We should continue to support initiatives that foster education and growth. The future of our children should never be compromised by the narrow-mindedness of a few.”
“Let us unite to protect and uplift our educational institutions, ensuring that they thrive for generations to come. Let the voices of those who truly benefit from this school rise above those who try to pull it down. We stand firm, we stand strong, and we stand together for education, for development, and for what is right,” REC concluded.