Proposed school curriculum framework stresses on the importance of holistic education

Thiruvananthapuram: The schooling system in Kerala is set for a major overhaul in terms of  the school curriculum framework. While the framework emphasises on the importance of teaching in mother tongue, it also highlights the relevance of English proficiency in the modern times. Along with this, Hindi, Urdu, Arabic, Sanskrit, and other languages which come under the eighth schedule of the constitution will also be given due importance.

The framework puts across suggestions for a holistic development of children.  Students will be allowed to learn in their regional language in preschool and also in the initial stages of primary education. Apart from imparting knowledge on alphabets, teachers should help students grasp writing skills at a very young age, the draft recommends. Languages and cultures of gotras shall be rightfully accommodated in the educational spectrum.

As per the proposed framework, students of Kerala shall be initially trained in speaking, reading, and writing English from class 1 to 5. From class 6, students shall pick up pace in learning English through different means. In the secondary level, school students should be able to communicate in English in a confident manner. In class 11 and 12, children should be capable of writing long essays and critiques, and shall also do translation works. 

Going ahead, due importance will be given to art related extracurricular activities as well. By the time students reach the final stage of their schooling, they will ideally be artistically driven and motivated. 

Coming into matters concerning health-Health Cards should be introduced right from the preschool level. It will help in monitoring the health conditions of the student community. Exercises shall be conducted for at least three days in school for enriching the bone and muscle strength of children.

A suggestion for adopting a semester model in the public examination has also been put forth. This shall help in reducing the prolonged gap between exams like how it often happens these days.