From 3 Language Formula to Internships, Key Points in Bengal’s Education Policy – News18

Karnataka became the first Indian state to oppose the implementation of National Education Policy. Now, West Bengal has introduced its own education policy which includes compulsory three language formula and internships opportunities for school students. With an emphasis on underrepresented, underprivileged, and marginalized groups, the new State Education Policy (SEP) seeks to provide a higher standard of education for all children.

Also Read: West Bengal Education Department Notifies New State Education Policy

Here are some the highlights of state’s education policy:-

West Bengal Education Structure

Currently, West Bengal’s educational system is organized according to a 5+4+2+2 pattern. There is a pre-primary year and four years of primary school up to class 4. Students go through upper elementary for four years, secondary for two years, and higher secondary for two years. The inclusion of the first two years of early childhood education in an Anganwadi center is the only modification to the framework that has been proposed.

Early Childhood Care and Education 

More than 82 lakh children (0–6 years) are served by around 1.2 lakh Anganwadi Centers (AWC). The Expert Committee on School Education will develop the curriculum for the children of AWC to provide a smooth transition from preschool to primary school. The Committee also urges the creation of a distinctive identity card with an implanted memory chip containing basic academic records from class III onward.

Three Language Formula 

Depending on the infrastructure and resources, classes 5 to 8 will use the three-language formula. According to the school’s medium, the major language of teaching will be either Bengali for schools with a Bangla medium, English for schools with an English medium, Urdu for schools with an Urdu medium, or Hindi for schools with a Hindi medium. In schools where English is not the primary language, the second language may either be English or another language that is different from the first language. In addition, a language different than the first and second language may be used as the third language.

Secondary Education 

The Committee suggests implementing the Semester method for an improved formative evaluation method gradually over the following three years, beginning with Class VIII.

Higher Secondary Education 

During the summer break, students should participate in internship programs and projects linked to the disciplines of their choice. In this context, partnerships with media outlets, publishing companies, and corporate organizations may be established.