Excellence in distribution of textbooks

Distributing textbooks for the next academic year and free handloom uniforms to students even before schools reopen is a commendable achievement. In the past, students often struggled to get textbooks even after schools reopened. Student organisations used to protest and disrupt classes, demanding timely distribution. That situation has now changed. Speaking at the state-level inauguration of textbook and free handloom uniform distribution held at Pattom St. Mary’s Higher Secondary School, Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan said it is a good model that textbooks for the next academic year were distributed before the current academic year ended. He recalled that before 2016, there were frequent delays in textbook distribution. Teachers had to rely on photocopies to conduct classes.

The timely distribution of textbooks now is the result of changes made in the education sector over the past ten years. Earlier, delays in placing printing orders and administrative procedures led to shortages. The government’s comprehensive interventions have improved the situation. The Chief Minister also said that earlier, nearly five lakh students had left the public education sector and around a thousand schools were facing closure. That situation has also changed.

Education Minister V Sivankutty said that ensuring textbooks and free handloom uniforms reach students before school reopening reflects the efficiency of the Education Department. Timely educational facilities have brought relief to students and parents. He added that public schools have now become people-friendly centres of education.

It has to be said that as the General Education Minister, V Sivankutty has been leading his department effectively and without major complaints. Being a good organiser, his attention reaches all areas. With the budget announcing free education up to the degree level, more efforts are needed to improve the quality of education. There are concerns about whether students are receiving enough training in English. Even those who have studied MA English Literature sometimes struggle to speak English without mistakes. There are also instances where PhD holders face similar difficulties. In today’s competitive world, language skills- especially in English- are very important for students.

If students studying in the Malayalam medium are to become confident in English, suitable teaching methods must be introduced from the primary school level itself. It is easy to question why English should be learned. However, those who travel and work outside can clearly see the global importance of the language. Let students learn as many languages as possible. As the world becomes a space of job opportunities, language skills are essential to move ahead. The General Education Department, which has shown excellence in many areas, is expected to take strong steps in this matter as well.