“The current preference for English as a medium of education is not simply a passing trend; it reflects an acute awareness of the skills required to thrive in a competitive landscape.
Interestingly, there appears to be an ironic twist in the arguments of those advocating for Konkani and Marathi as the primary languages of instruction.
While pushing for these languages in schools, many of these same individuals are sending their children to English medium institutions, which raises questions about the sincerity of their advocacy.”
In a recent statement that has sparked a heated debate, Goa BJP legislator Michael Lobo has raised concerns regarding the future of primary schools in Goa founded by the late CM, Bhausaheb Bandodkar.
According to Lobo, these institutions could face closure if the medium of instruction (MOI) is not shifted to English.
Chief Minister Dr. Pramod Sawant wasted no time in asserting that the state’s education policy mandates that primary education be conducted in Konkani. This clash of opinions reveals a complex issue at the intersection of cultural identity and educational necessity.
In today’s globalized world, English has emerged as a pivotal language for success. It is the language of commerce, technology, and international relations, leading many parents to perceive proficiency in English as essential for their children’s future.
The current preference for English as a medium of education is not simply a passing trend; it reflects an acute awareness of the skills required to thrive in a competitive landscape.
Interestingly, there appears to be an ironic twist in the arguments of those advocating for Konkani and Marathi as the primary languages of instruction.
While pushing for these languages in schools, many of these same individuals are sending their children to English medium institutions, which raises questions about the sincerity of their advocacy.
It is a reality that many parents, especially from wealthier backgrounds, have the means to enrol their children in English medium schools, effectively sidelining traditional languages in the pursuit of better educational outcomes.
This raises an uncomfortable question: is there hypocrisy at play in the support for Konkani and Marathi when the elite are seeking English for their own children?
Moreover, the stark socioeconomic divide in Goa raises grave concerns about access to quality education.
For less affluent families, the high fees associated with English medium schools make them unattainable.
These families are left in a precarious situation where the public education system, which continues to endorse Konkani and Marathi as the primary languages of instruction, faces declining interest.
Schools operating under this MOI are reportedly at risk of closure, primarily due to diminishing enrollments.
Lobo’s comments, while controversial, underscore a pressing reality that cannot be ignored.
The government must heed the voices of all stakeholders — particularly those of common citizens who struggle with the existing educational framework.
Changing the MOI to English does not imply abandoning Konkani or Marathi; rather, it acknowledges the necessity of English in a rapidly evolving world.
The Chief Minister, tasked with navigating this delicate balance, must take a sympathetic approach towards the demand for English in primary education.
A more flexible education policy that accommodates the diverse needs of the populace could be a path forward.
By fostering multilingual education systems that include English alongside local languages like Konkani and Marathi, the government can help ensure that our children are well-equipped for the future while also preserving our rich linguistic heritage.
Hence, the conversation surrounding the medium of instruction in Goa should transcend individual interests and focus on the broader implications for our children’s futures.
In a global economy where English has become a cornerstone for opportunity, it is time to reconsider our approach to education and prioritize the needs of every Goan child. As we move forward, embracing English alongside our native languages may well be the key to unlocking a brighter future for all.
