NEP: Arunachal min underlines significance of regional languages

Itanagar: Shedding light on the new National Education Policy and its diverse curriculum, Arunachal Pradesh Education Minister Taba Tedir stressed the significance of regional languages and mother tongue in the school curriculum, as they facilitate better understanding of things leading to improved learning outcomes. He mentioned that the Education Department will submit a proposal to the Government to increase language teachers’ salaries.
The Minister, who was gracing the Silver Jubilee celebration of the Bomdila (West Kameng)-based Shanti Deva Vidyalaya that took place at the GRL Monastery premises in Bomdila on Saturday, also highlighted the CM Pema Khandu-led State Government’s commitment to ‘enhance’ the education sector.
Tedir, in his address, lauded Shanti Deva Vidyalaya (SDV) and the Buddhist Cultural and Preservation Society (BCPS), Bomdila for their selfless dedication to nurturing students and achieving academic excellence.
He addressed the misconception that sending students to school absolves parents of their responsibilities, emphasizing that society’s progress relies on education. Furthermore, he encouraged the district administration to launch the ‘school adoption program’ where officers would adopt a school each. Highlighting the “No Bag Day” initiative, he suggested officials visit schools on Saturdays to share their knowledge and field experiences with students.
Speaking on the occasion, Lumla MLA Tsering Lhamu also praised the BCPS and SDV for their enduring support and collaboration in educating students in the region over the past 25 years. She also emphasized the value of education and literacy, adding that education with values is equally essential.
The lawmaker also underlined the government’s recent decision to regularize 500 ISSE teachers and increase their salaries as a testament to the government’s commitment to the education sector.
Expressing the need for educational transformation in society, she envisioned “a community with more bookstores than wine shops”. She expressed concerns about students’ involvement in substance abuse and called upon parents and teachers to closely monitor their children. She also urged students to abstain from narcotic substances.
Also present on the occasion was West Kameng Deputy Commissioner Akriti Sagar, who extended congratulations to Shanti Deva Vidyalaya for reaching the remarkable milestone of 25 years in the noble pursuit of education.
In his keynote address, BCPS president Dondup Tsering shared the history of SDV’s transformation from a modest Assam type building to a full-fledged institution. Earlier, BCPS secretary Tashi Tsering while welcoming the gathering provided insights into the establishment of the Vidyalaya, driven by the initiative and vision of His Eminence, the 13th Tsona Gontse Rinpoche.
The event featured the release of a souvenir and presentation of diverse cultural items including the Yak dance. The celebration saw the participation of HoDs, BCPS members, alumni, former and current teachers, parents, students, and the general public.