Bihar’s education sector is undergoing significant reforms following the dismissal of KK Pathak, the former Additional Secretary of the Education Department. Under the new directives by ACS S Siddharth, notable changes have been implemented to enhance student welfare and respond to public feedback.
Expansion of School Kits Distribution
- Inclusive Distribution:
- The distribution of school kits, previously limited to students from classes 1 through 3, has been expanded to include students from class 1 through class 12.
- The new initiative includes the introduction of the FLN (Foundational Literacy and Numeracy) and LEP (Learning Enhancement Programme) kits.
- Investment and Distribution:
- The government has allocated Rs 498.75 per kit.
- To receive the kits, students must upload their Aadhaar details on the e-Shiksha portal.
- This policy is effective for the academic year 2024-2025.
- Quality Assurance:
- Samples of the new kits have been dispatched to block offices.
- A toll-free number, 14417/18003454417, has been set up for quality-related complaints. Parents and students are encouraged to use this service for any issues concerning the kits.
Increase in School Holidays
- New Holidays Added:
- Six additional holidays have been incorporated into the school calendar, addressing public concerns over the previous reduction in holidays.
- The new holidays include:
- Rakshabandhan
- Haritalika Teej
- Anant Chaturdarshi
- Jeevit Putrika Vrat (Jiutiya)
- Gurunanak Jayanti
- Kartik Purnima
- Additional Days for Teej Vrat:
- Two more days have been designated for Teej Vrat, reflecting cultural significance and public demand.
Response to Feedback
These changes are a direct response to feedback and protests over the reduction of school holidays in the past year. The Education Department’s new policies demonstrate a commitment to improving student welfare and addressing the concerns of the community.
The recent updates in Bihar’s education sector signify a progressive move towards enhancing the educational experience for students, ensuring they receive adequate resources and respecting cultural traditions with the addition of new holidays.
