Goa to introduce new NCERT syllabus

Goa will become the first state in the country to introduce the new NCERT syllabus in schools from the ensuing academic year, said Luizinho Faleiro, minister for education.

The NCERT books will be distributed free of cost to all students from standard I to VIII from May 1, 2006, said Faleiro at a seminar organised during the weekend.

The minister said all NCERT books would be ready by April 15 and added that, "a good syllabus should not be a burden to the child, but should be a matter of joy".

Stating that efforts were being made to make the education movement a way of life and mission, involving all those engaged in education, said Faleiro his intention was to reach every parent in Goa during this year so as to create consciousness among them about education.

Parents are important stakeholders in promotion of education, the education minister said and pointed out that through education and health, the nation and its people could be best empowered.

To promote computer literacy the state government is contemplating to start computer literacy programme from standard I and also make English subject compulsory to make these students conversant with English language, he said.Similarly, it also plans to provide bicycle to every girl child from standard 8th belonging to SC, ST and OBCs.