Bantwal: Children in the State are likely to write exams during the midterm holidays (Dasara holidays) as Dasara festivities this year and the examination dates are clashing with the 9/11 day festival. The mistake committed by the education department authorities earlier is likely to be repeated this year too.
Dasara festivities begin on October 1 and conclude on October 11. During Navarathri which is the festive period before Diwali, children enjoy the most as innumerable cultural activates take place in various social platforms. Hulivesha, Karadi Kunitha, Gombe habba and Ayudha Puja are the prominent ones which are scheduled during the nine day period where children will be very anxious to take part or atleast witness the events from a distance. In addition, various games and competitions are held during this period.
According to the academic calendar for the year 2016-17, the midterm holidays are scheduled between October 9-27. In the present education system it is not only the children who experience pressure but even the parents. Though the pattern revolves around activities, it has become very common to find parents educating even a second grade child with utmost interest. If they are employed, they take leave during the examination period to instill confidence and motivate their children. In reality, both parents and children remain active in activity based system where there should be hardly any pressure during exams!
Considering the enormous pressure during the examination period, both children and parents look forward to midterm holidays associated with Dasara festivities which gives them the much needed respite. They plan holiday outings and outstation tours during the holiday period.
Looking at the scenario, this year the children as well as the parents might end up preparing for examinations as dates are clashing with the Navarathri period.
Mid-term holidays were shortened by a week few years ago to accomodate weeklong Christmas holidays at the calendar year end. Since the examinations are held at taluk level, certain educational department authorities feel the dates can be realigned keeping the festival in view. But the teaching community has already planned exams during the end of September and the first week of October based on the academic calendar available with them.
Critics say, it is very unfortunate that the education department is unable to plan a perfect time schedule in spite of previous complaints in an era where typhoons can be predicted well in advance. When the structure is clear on the number of holidays, the confusion created by the department in the minds of children and parents is uncalled for, according to them.
Reacting on the issue, the standing committee member for education in DK Zilla Panchyat Shahul Hameed said, “Efforts will be made to prevent examinations clashing with Navarathri festivities.” He assured of discussion with district in- charge minister and the deputy director of public instruction to set right the anomalies.
Walter D’Mello, Deputy director of Public Instruction said, “Midterm holidays will be between October 9-27. It is the responsibility of the school authorities to schedule exams accordingly.”
