Sunday 17 May 2020

Mr. Rustom Kerawalla, Chairman, Ampersand Group on the Education Stimulus announced by Ms. Nirmala Sitharaman, Finance Minister



This is with reference to the announcement made by Honourable Finance Minister, Nirmala Sitharaman at a Press Conference for giving details of the economic stimulus package due to COVID-19 crisis.
There are several important announcements in the area of 'Education Sector' and we would like to share the views of Mr Rustom Kerawalla, Chairman, Ampersand Group & Founder Chairman, VIBGYOR Group of Schools.
"The thrust on online education by way of SWAYAM PRABHA DTH channels for reaching those who do not have access to the internet addresses the challenges faced by a large part of the student population. However, there has to be a stronger focus on measuring effectiveness. The government needs to look at third-party credible sources for making fair assessments.
The e-VIDYA programme for multi-mode access to digital or online education may not be applicable to all age groups. The younger children cannot focus on online modes without assistance or Parental Guidance and hence elders in the family too should be trained to impart education.  For the elder children, earmarking a TV channel or extensive use of radio and podcasts needs to be backed by practical on-ground training. The concept of 'blended learning' and training teachers for the new modes of learning should not be missed by the policymakers.
As announced for other sectors like Airports, Energy or Defence, the Government should embrace Public-Private Partnerships (PPPs) more widely for implementing these plans. PPPs can be involved for establishment, improvement or management of new or existing education infrastructure in the country. This would ensure fast track content creation, imparting training for the continuous professional development of teachers, vocational training and for monitoring outcome at the ground level."

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