The Central Government’s decision to abolish the no-detention policy for classes 5 and 8 has stirred a heated debate among schools in Karnataka. While some welcome the policy as a step towards improving education quality, others fear it could negatively affect student retention and inclusivity.
Current State in Karnataka
Karnataka presently follows a no-detention policy, with a common exam conducted by the Karnataka School Examination and Assessment Board. However, this examination is under litigation, challenged by private schools. The Centre’s move to remove the no-detention policy has left Karnataka schools divided on the best course of action for the state.
Support for the Detention Policy
The Associated Managements of Primary and Secondary Schools in Karnataka (KAMS) supports the Centre’s decision, emphasizing the need for accountability to address declining learning outcomes.
- D Shashi Kumar, Secretary of KAMS, highlighted a recent dipstick survey in Koppal involving 7,000 class 10 students. The survey revealed alarming gaps, with many students unable to read or write Kannada.
- Kumar attributed these issues to the practice of promoting students without assessing their readiness, stating, “We need detention to correct this decline.”
Opposition to the Detention Policy
Several educationists and organizations argue against the policy, citing its potential harm to children’s confidence and development.
- The Organisation for Unaided Recognised Schools expressed concerns about increased dropout rates and damage to students’ self-esteem. They emphasized the need for interventions to address learning gaps rather than penalizing students.
- Rishikesh BS, Faculty at Azim Premji University, argued that detention disproportionately affects vulnerable children who lack adequate support systems, stating, “Detention harms children’s self-esteem and confidence, often leaving them disadvantaged for life.”
- VP Niranjanradhya, Educationist, criticized the move, asserting that failing students before completing elementary education violates the spirit of the Right to Education (RTE) Act. He stressed that system-wide changes are needed instead of blaming children for systemic failures.
Broader Implications
The central government’s abolition of the no-detention policy applies to schools under its jurisdiction, including Kendriya Vidyalayas and Navodaya Vidyalayas. Students who fail year-end exams in classes 5 and 8 will now face the possibility of being held back but can reappear for exams within two months.
Concerns Over Implementation
Educationists emphasize that while the intent of the policy is to improve learning outcomes, its success hinges on creating supportive learning environments.
- RTE Compliance: Experts noted that RTE compliance remains low, at 26.3% in Karnataka. Without proper support and resources, detaining students could exacerbate existing inequalities.
- Holistic Interventions: Critics argue that instead of detention, schools should focus on bridging learning gaps through remedial programs and teacher training.
The Way Forward
The Karnataka Department of School Education and Literacy is yet to finalize its stance on adopting the detention policy. As the debate continues, stakeholders agree on one point: any policy change must prioritize the well-being and development of students while addressing systemic issues in the education sector.
