NCERT’s Textbook Panel for Classes 3-12

August 14, 2023

India’s apex advisory body on school education has set up a 19-member committee to align school syllabus, textbooks, and teaching materials with the National Curriculum Framework (NCF) for Classes 3-12. Fields medallist Manjul Bhargava, economist Bibek Debroy, philanthropist Sudha Murty, and singer Shankar Mahadevan are among the committee members. The committee, led by MC Pant, Chancellor of the National Institute of Educational Planning and Administration (NIEPA), aims to revise textbooks for Classes 1 and 2 as well. The NCF recommends significant changes in school education, including bi-annual board exams, a semester system for class 12, and student freedom in choosing subjects. The committee also includes experts from diverse fields, such as economics, education, sports, and literature.

How does the newly established committee contribute to education reform in India?

The committee’s purpose is to align school syllabus, textbooks, and teaching materials with the National Curriculum Framework (NCF), which promotes comprehensive education reform. This aligns educational content with modern learning goals and methodologies, fostering a more relevant and effective curriculum.

What role do prominent individuals like Manjul Bhargava and Sudha Murty play in the committee?

Bhargava, a Fields medal-winning mathematician, and Murty, a well-known philanthropist, bring their expertise and insights to guide curriculum development. Their diverse perspectives enrich the committee’s approach to shaping education content.

How will the committee’s work impact students transitioning from Classes 1 and 2 to higher grades?

The committee’s plan to revise textbooks for Classes 1 and 2 ensures a seamless transition for students into higher grades. This alignment bridges the gap between early education and advanced levels, promoting continuity and coherence in learning.

What are the key recommendations of the pre-draft NCF?

The pre-draft NCF proposes several transformative changes in education, including bi-annual board exams, a semester system for class 12, and greater flexibility for students to choose subjects like science, humanities, and commerce. However, the final report’s detailed recommendations are yet to be disclosed.

How does the inclusion of experts from different fields benefit curriculum development?

The committee’s members come from diverse backgrounds, including economics, literature, sports, and education. This diversity ensures a holistic approach to curriculum development, incorporating a wide range of perspectives and expertise.

How does the committee’s composition reflect its dedication to education improvement?

The committee comprises renowned individuals such as Manjul Bhargava, who is a prominent mathematician, and Sudha Murty, a philanthropist committed to education. The inclusion of experts from various fields, along with representatives from institutions like NCERT and SCERT, demonstrates a collective commitment to enhancing India’s education system.

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