Nagpur: In a major change, English will no longer be compulsory for Classes 11 and 12 in Maharashtra and will be classified as a “foreign language.”
The State Council for Education, Research, and Training (SCERT) of the Maharashtra Government has proposed significant changes to the curriculum for Classes 11 and 12. One notable change is the reclassification of English from a compulsory subject to a non-compulsory one, marking it as a foreign language.
Under the proposed curriculum, students will have the flexibility to choose from a variety of subjects. There will be eight subjects in total, comprising two languages, four elective subjects, and two compulsory subjects.
According to the new subject scheme for Classes 11 and 12, students can choose eight subjects: Two languages, environmental and physical education, and four subjects of their choice. The goal is to eventually remove the traditional Arts, Commerce, and Science streams. One of the languages must be Indian, from a list of 17 native languages and nine foreign languages, including English. As per the SCF’s language chart, students must select at least one Indian language. The chart lists 17 Indian languages and nine foreign languages, with English being the foremost amongst the foreign options.
This move allows students to explore a diverse range of subjects and languages, encouraging a broader perspective on education. Furthermore, the draft curriculum emphasises interdisciplinary education, with particular attention given to topics related to climate change and its impacts.
Previously, English was mandatory from Classes 1 to 12. However, the draft of the new school education framework in Maharashtra, released by SCERT, is now open for suggestions from all stakeholders.
The SCERT has invited feedback from stakeholders until June 3, indicating a collaborative effort to shape the educational landscape in Maharashtra. These proposed changes reflect a shift towards a more flexible and holistic approach to learning, preparing students to navigate a rapidly changing world.
The draft does not clearly state what will happen with English for Classes 3 to 10, where it has been mandatory. For Classes 3 to 5, students will have two languages instead of three. The first language can be their mother tongue or Marathi, and the second can be any other language.
For Classes 7 and 8, three languages are recommended, but the specific combinations are not detailed. For Classes 9 and 10, two of the three languages must be Indian.
The SCF also suggests a new approach for junior college, allowing students to mix subjects from different fields instead of sticking to Arts, Commerce, or Science.
Additionally, the SCF recommends including the Indian Knowledge System in the curriculum. This would cover topics like Yoga, ancient Indian technologies and sciences, and historical contributions to mathematics, such as Aryabhatta’s work. Classes 11 and 12 will have a course on India’s knowledge, traditions and practices.
