“We will follow two-language policy,” CM Stalin unveils Tamil Nadu’s State Education Policy | VIDEO

Chennai: Tamil Nadu Chief Minister M. K. Stalin officially launched the State Education Policy (SEP) on Friday, emphasising that it reflects the unique character of the state and strongly reaffirming Tamil Nadu’s opposition to the National Education Policy (NEP).

At the launch event held at the Anna Centenary Library Auditorium in Chennai, the Chief Minister declared that Tamil Nadu would continue with its long-standing two-language policy. “Through this education policy, we don't want students just to mug up, but think and get educated. Physical education will be taught along with studies. Importantly, I want to say firmly that we will follow two-language policy and it is our firm policy,” said Stalin.

Tamil Nadu has historically resisted the three-language formula proposed under the NEP, which includes Hindi. The two-language policy followed in the state includes Tamil and English.

Smart classrooms and equal education

The new policy includes several initiatives, including smart classrooms and greater focus on physical education. Stalin said that no child should be left behind and education must include rational thinking. “We are going to make a change in education, our aim is to educate all. Nobody should be left out,” he said.

“We will never allow anyone to stop education. We will not allow pirooku (reactionary thinking) in our education. Our state education policy aims to create samathuva kalvi (equality) and will be a pagutharivu kalvi (one with a rational thought). This will serve as a platform to compete with international standards of education,” Stalin added.

The Chief Minister also outlined a goal to ensure that all school students move on to higher education, noting that the current rate is at 75 percent. “The government, based on the Dravidian model, needs all school students to join higher education. Mother feels happy to see her children study well. 75 per cent of school students joined higher education, and we target 100 per cent to join higher education,” he said.

He also pointed out a rise in students entering top universities: “When you finish school and join college life, it will give a new experience. This will be a way for your career. This year, 901 students joined premier institutions,” Stalin added.

State stands firm against NEP

The launch of the SEP comes after months of tension between the DMK-led state government and the central government over the National Education Policy.

Tamil Nadu has repeatedly refused to implement the NEP, calling it “against social justice” and a move to impose Hindi on the state.

In May, the Tamil Nadu government filed a petition in the Supreme Court, alleging that the Centre had withheld nearly Rs 2,200 crore in funds because of the state’s refusal to adopt the NEP.

The plea requested that the NEP 2020 and the PM SHRI Schools Scheme not be made binding on states that do not officially accept them.

With ANI inputs