The department of school education and literacy was directed by the additional chief secretary to the chief minister not to increase the number of preschools.
Bengaluru: There will be no new preschools in the southern state of Karnataka for now. During a meeting convened by the Additional Chief Secretary to the Chief Minister regarding the introduction of kindergarten classes in government schools, the Department of School Education and Literacy was instructed not to increase the number of preschools beyond the current 2,786 until further notice. In the meantime, Anganwadi staff with a minimum PU degree will begin kindergarten classes, and these workers will receive training for their new responsibilities.
The government’s decision to start kindergarten classes in schools faced strong opposition from Anganwadi workers, who fear loss of jobs because kids would go to schools at the age of four. Seeking a full proof solution, state chief minister Siddaramaiah appointed his additional chief secretary, LK Atheeq to hold a meeting with both the departments.
On Monday, a group of officials came together to form a committee. Their task? To carefully examine and weigh up the quality and the effects of kindergarten programs in schools versus those in Anganwadis. Meanwhile, the expansion of preschools is on pause as per the directives of the education department. They’ve put it on hold until the analysis reaches its conclusion. However, preschool sections that already exist within schools can continue with their operations as usual.
The Anganwadis co-located with schools and have PU passed teachers are allowed to start kindergarten classes. Both the departments have to work on these kindergarten classes together. With 5,000 co-located schools, the number of such anganwadis with qualified teachers is yet to be determined.
Anganwadi workers, qualified to become teachers, will be trained by Azim Premji Foundation.
Anganwadi workers can heave a sigh of relief as their job security is being addressed. A dedicated committee is coming forth that will concentrate on formulating policies around early childhood care and education (ECCE). In addition, it will make strides in tightening cooperation and bettering the synergy among the respective departments.