The Chhattisgarh government, led by Chief Minister Vishnu Deo Sai, is set to enhance primary education in the state’s tribal regions by introducing bilingual education in local languages and dialects. This initiative aims to increase educational access and quality by allowing students to learn in their mother tongue, thereby preserving their cultural heritage.
Key Details of the Initiative:
- Bilingual Books: The government will introduce bilingual textbooks in 18 local languages and dialects. This includes translating existing textbooks and teaching materials into local dialects.
- Teacher Training: Teachers will receive training in these local languages to effectively deliver education and bridge communication gaps.
- Objective: The primary goal is to improve cognitive development and academic performance by teaching students in languages they are familiar with. This approach also aims to boost school enrolment and reduce dropout rates.
Teacher and Student Perspectives:
Anita Janghel, an assistant teacher at Government Primary School, Khajri, Khairagarh, highlights the benefits of teaching in Chhattisgarhi, the local language. According to Janghel:
- Cognitive Development: Learning in their mother tongue enhances students’ understanding and cognitive abilities.
- Increased Enrolment: Education in the local language has led to higher enrolment rates and reduced dropout rates.
- Need for More Teachers: Despite receiving Foundational Literacy and Numeracy (FLN) training, there is a need for more teachers to improve the educational process.
Implementation Strategy:
- Initial Languages: The first phase will include courses in Chhattisgarhi, Sargujia, Halbi, Sadari, Gondi-Dantewada, and Kudukh.
- Community Involvement: The state will collaborate with litterateurs, folk artistes, and senior citizens to develop content.
Support and Challenges:
- National Education Policy (NEP) 2020: The initiative aligns with NEP 2020’s recommendation to promote mother tongue education at the primary level. The Central Institute of Indian Languages supports this by preparing content in various languages.
- Challenges: Key challenges include creating content for unwritten minor and tribal languages and ensuring the quality of teacher training. Identifying teachers who are fluent in the local languages and ensuring they are well-versed in the major regional languages are crucial steps for effective implementation.
Future Considerations:
- Pre-Primary Education: The initiative should start at the pre-primary level to leverage the early language learning capabilities of young children.
- Parental Awareness: Educating parents on the benefits of mother tongue education is essential, as some may prioritize major languages like Hindi or English for their children.
This initiative represents a significant step toward making education more inclusive and culturally relevant for tribal communities in Chhattisgarh. By addressing language barriers and enhancing teaching methods, the government aims to foster a more effective and engaging learning environment for students in these regions.
