Uttar Pradesh: New Rule In Schools From April 1, BIG Changes For Students

New Delhi: In the new academic session commencing in April, students in secondary schools will read newspaper headlines during morning assemblies, understand the meanings of difficult words, and strengthen their command over language. Concurrently, there will be a complete ban on bringing mobile phones into schools. To cultivate reading habits among students in secondary schools and to curb rising screen time, the practice of reading news has now been integrated into the academic calendar. Prior to this, in December, Partha Sarathi Sen Sharma, the Additional Chief Secretary for Basic and Secondary Education, issued an order making news reading mandatory for students across all schools.

What is the new initiative?

At the beginning of the session, students will read out key news items during the morning assembly. It will be the responsibility of teachers to ensure the correct pronunciation of difficult words encountered in the news, as well as to explain their meanings and demonstrate their usage in sentences. This initiative will bolster both the linguistic proficiency and general knowledge of the students. Bhagwati Singh, Secretary of the Uttar Pradesh Board of Secondary Education, has directed all District Inspectors of Schools and Divisional Education Officers to ensure the effective implementation of this new system.

Why was the initiative taken?

This initiative is being undertaken to effectively translate previously issued orders into concrete action on the ground. Simultaneously, a complete ban will be imposed on students bringing mobile phones to school premises. The Board holds the view that excessive mobile usage during adolescence has an adverse impact on the physical, mental, and moral development of children.

This step has been taken in light of issues such as deteriorating eyesight, a lack of concentration in studies, and addiction to online games. While there is an emphasis on reducing screen time on one hand, digital literacy will be simultaneously promoted on the other. Email IDs will be created for all registered students, and they will be encouraged to utilize them for practical purposes.

Directives have also been issued to enhance the utilization of smart classrooms, information technology, and online educational platforms. Students will be encouraged to use platforms such as Khan Academy, 'The Teacher App,' the 'Manodarpan' portal, and the 'Career Advisor App' by being provided with information regarding these resources. Through this new framework, the Board aims to strike a balance between traditional learning and digital education. On one hand, the engagement with books and newspapers will be deepened, while on the other, students will be taught the correct and constructive application of technology.