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Latest News |
| 18th
February 2010 / Times of India / Mumbai Edition |
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HSC principals express concern
Mumbai: While the two national boards, ICSE and CBSE,
and the state board have embraced the decision to follow
a common curriculum for science and math in Classes XI
and XII, many principals, teachers and parents are more
cautious in their praise. For one, SSC principals cant
help but worry about the academic jump for their students.
The question is whether students from the state board
will able to cope with the new syllabus The syllabus has
to be designed keeping SSC students in mind as they are
the majority, said Fr George of St Michaels High School,
Mahim.
Fr Frazer Mascarenhas, principal of St Xaviers College
in Dhobi Talao expressed doubts over the benefits of the
new system, which will be effective from 2011. This wont
turn out to be a good move, he said. Even the National
Knowledge Commission states the need for variety in the
education system. The aim is for every student to find
his comfort in a particular board and syllabus. If we
have a uniform syllabus, we leave students with no option
. Another cause for concern is whether colleges will have
to conduct more intensive tutorials for state board students.
This move was long overdue , said Deepishika Shrivastav
, principal of Rajhans Vidyalaya, a CBSE board school
in Andheri. But she is quick to add a caveat: It will
be a success if the education ministry can skillfully
pull off the difficult task of bringing uniformity across
the country.
We have been trying to bring uniformity to the education
system for a long time. But, if implemented, this system
needs have a standard, said Carl Laurie, principal of
ICSE school, Christ Church.
Theres no denying the fact that the move will effectively
curb the intense pressure that Class XII students face,
given that a large number also prepare for entrance tests
for professional courses. Competition in the national
entrance tests will definitely come down with a common
curriculum, said Naresh Chandra, principal of Birla College
in Kalyan.
Educationists believe that the common curriculum will
also benefit out-of-state students . Students who come
from other states will find it easier to apply to state
colleges , said Kavita Rege, principal of Sathaye College,
Vile Parle. Parents and students concur. It will help
neutralise competition between students applying from
different boards, said Rashmi Masand (44), whose son is
currently studying in Class XI.
Others like Meera Isaacs, principal of Cathedral and John
Connon School, prefer the wait-and-watch approach. We
need to understand the feasibility of the new system before
giving it the thumbs up. It is after all going to affect
the future of students, she said. Laurie added: The Centre
has been announcing many changes in the education system.
Lets see if this one is implemented.
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