Bengal school syllabus to change from 2028? Tagore’s ‘Africa’, ‘Sirajdaulla’ may be replaced

West Bengal’s school education system could witness major changes from 2028, with a comprehensive overhaul of the curriculum being planned. The proposed changes are expected to cover subjects, textbooks and the way history and literature are taught in schools.

Among the proposed changes is a reshuffle of the Bengali literature syllabus. Rabindranath Tagore’s poem ‘Africa’ could be replaced by ‘Shivaji Utsav’, according to the proposed curriculum changes.

Similarly, playwright Sarat Chandra Sengupta’s ‘Sirajdaulla’ could make way for ‘Banger Pratapaditya’.

The history syllabus could also see significant changes. The life and contribution of Shyama Prasad Mukherjee as an educationist could be incorporated into the curriculum, according to the proposal.

Another proposed change concerns the Class 8 history syllabus. A portion relating to the Singur movement could be removed, with some sections on India’s freedom struggle proposed as replacements.

The proposed changes are likely to trigger debate over the selection and representation of historical and literary figures in school textbooks.

While the proposed syllabus seeks to introduce new topics, the final list of inclusions and exclusions will depend on the completion of the curriculum review process and the authorities’ approval.

The planned overhaul is expected to be part of a broader restructuring of school education in West Bengal, with changes to the curriculum being considered for implementation from 2028.

However, it is important to note that these are proposed changes and not yet a finalised syllabus. The final content will be clear only after the relevant authorities complete their review and approve the revised curriculum.