Goa is increasingly facing an alarming decay in the foundation of its educational system -- government schools. Despite the state government's reassurances about its education policies and its slow embrace of the National Education Policy (NEP), the hard facts on its schools present a contrasting narrative. On average, 17 government schools are closed or merged in Goa each year, with almost 212 schools facing elimination or consolidation since 2014. Current trends indicate a downward trajectory, leaving many to wonder: what is driving this decline, and why is there a lack of interest in government schools?
The closure of government schools can be attributed primarily to low enrollment figures. The latest statistics reveal that of the 694 government schools at the start of the academic year 2024-25, nearly 55% have less than five students in classes I to IV. This is a stark indicator of the declining confidence in the government schooling system. The Chief Minister's suggestion that the proliferation of private schools near government institutions is to blame raises further questions: Why are parents choosing private schools, despite the exorbitant fees? Is the perceived elitism drawing parents towards private schools or is it because of better quality education?
The answer lies in a combination of factors. Quality of education, infrastructure, faculty competence, and overall student performance are critical. Many parents name poor infrastructure and outdated teaching methods as significant deterrents. Furthermore, the under-resourced nature of government schools leads to a lack of extracurricular activities, which are essential to holistic development. High-stakes standardised testing also puts pressure on students, leading parents to view private institutions as the safer, more nurturing environment for their children.
Historical factors further complicate Goa's educational landscape. Traditionally seen as the “go-to” option, government schools have lost their lustre over the last decade as private and aided schools have gained momentum, promoting innovative teaching practices, better facilities, and superior student outcomes. Ironically, while the government claims to be enhancing educational policies and aligning with the NEP, dramatic changes have not helped in changing perspectives on government-run schools.
The dissonance between policy and execution has led to a vicious cycle as more government schools shut their doors, and the remaining struggle to attract students. A report presented in the Lok Sabha noted that between 2014 and 2024, only nine private schools faced closure due to infrastructure issues, a striking contrast to the drastic decline of government-run institutions. The pattern is alarming; if this trend continues, Goa may see itself stripped of its once robust system of public education.
Moreover, the government's hesitance to allow new government schools to open due to the declining number of existing schools is counterintuitive. Current regulations limit the establishment of new institutions to prevent proximity issues, an approach that fails to acknowledge the evolving needs of the community. With 150 applications for new government schools being shelved or rejected in the past two years due to inadequate evaluation by the education department, the future of public education hangs in a precarious balance.
Parents desire a school environment where their children can thrive. The emphasis needs to shift towards making government schools competitive, focusing on quality education, infrastructure improvement, and capacitating teachers. The government will have to take massive steps and transform its schools if it has to project them as viable alternatives to private institutions. As the state government continues to trumpet its educational ambitions, it must confront the reality of its deteriorating system of schools. The writing is on the wall, and the decline in schools every passing year says it all.
