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“Sishu Vatika” Class in the 2025-26 Academic Year
“Sishu Vatika” Class in the 2025-26 Academic Year The Government of Odisha, in alignment with the National Education Policy (NEP) 2020, is taking a significant step towards strengthening early childhood education by introducing “Sishu Vatika” classes. These classes will cater to children aged 5-6 years, ensuring a solid foundation for their academic journey. The implementation of this initiative will commence in the 2025-26 academic session. To ensure a seamless rollout, the following preparatory measures have been put in place:
1. Admission and Infrastructure Utilization
Children aged 5-6 years will be enrolled in “Sishu Vatika” classes in primary schools. The existing manpower and infrastructure will be optimized to accommodate this new initiative effectively.
2. Instructional Hours
The instructional hours for “Sishu Vatika” classes will be from 10:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m., ensuring ample time for learning and engagement.
3. Quality Pre-School Education Materials
To enhance the learning experience, a specialized student workbook has been developed by TE&SCERT. These workbooks will be distributed to all students by April 1, 2025, ensuring access to structured learning materials.
4. Learning Kits for Students
To facilitate smooth integration into the school system, every “Sishu Vatika” student will receive a learning kit, including a school bag and essential stationery. While school bags will be supplied centrally by the State, procurement of other stationery items will be managed at the district level.
5. Teacher Support and Training
Primary grade teachers will receive a comprehensive handbook developed by TE&SCERT to enhance their teaching methodologies. Additionally, all primary grade teachers will undergo training on the “Prastuti” module. This training, led by DRGs who DIETs have trained, must be completed by March 15, 2025.
6. Play-Based Learning with “Jaadui Pitara” Kits
To promote foundational skills through play-based learning, “Jaadui Pitara” kits are being procured and will be supplied to each school. Furthermore, an e-version of “Jaadui Pitara” will be made available to parents to increase public awareness and involvement in foundational education.
7. Dedicated Support and Monitoring
A specialized district-level cell will be established to provide hands-on support to teachers, ensuring effective classroom practices. This cell will also monitor the progress of “Sishu Vatika” and the NIPUN Odisha initiative periodically.
8. Infrastructure and Pedagogical Enhancements
Additional infrastructure and pedagogical support will be provided in all primary schools over the coming months and years. This will be executed in a phased manner to strengthen the implementation of “Sishu Vatika.”
9. Community and Parental Engagement
The success of “Sishu Vatika” depends not only on schools and teachers but also on active community and parental participation. Schools will conduct orientation sessions for parents, emphasizing the importance of early childhood education and ways to support their child’s learning journey at home. Community-led initiatives such as storytelling sessions, parent-child workshops, and interactive play sessions will be organized to foster a collaborative learning ecosystem.
10. Ensuring a Child-Friendly Learning Environment
Schools will implement policies that promote inclusivity, safety, and well-being to create a nurturing and child-friendly environment. Child-friendly infrastructure, clean and hygienic classrooms, and colorful learning spaces will be set up to make learning enjoyable. Teachers will be encouraged to use positive reinforcement techniques to boost children’s confidence and enthusiasm for learning.
Also, Read>> Objectives of the Rashtriya Avishkar Abhiyan Program Initiated by the Government of India
Pros and Cons of the “Sishu Vatika” Initiative
Pros:
- Enhanced Early Childhood Education: Provides structured pre-primary education, ensuring a strong foundation for future learning.
- Play-Based Learning: Encourages interactive and engaging learning methods that improve cognitive and social skills.
- Teacher Training and Support: Equips educators with the necessary skills and knowledge to deliver quality education.
- Free Learning Kits.
- Community Involvement: Increases awareness and participation from parents and local communities, fostering a supportive educational environment.
- Improved Infrastructure: Enhances learning spaces with modern facilities and engaging classroom environments.
Cons:
- Infrastructure Challenges: Some schools may lack adequate infrastructure to accommodate the new classes effectively.
- Teacher Workload: Existing teachers may face increased responsibilities without additional manpower.
- Implementation Hurdles: Effective execution may be challenging in remote or underdeveloped areas due to logistical issues.
- Parental Awareness: Some parents may not fully grasp the importance of early education, leading to lower engagement levels.
- Sustainability Concerns: Ensuring long-term funding and continuous improvements may be a challenge if not planned well.
Call to Action
All concerned authorities are urged to take the necessary steps to ensure the successful execution of the “Sishu Vatika” program. By implementing these measures, Odisha is paving the way for a robust early childhood education system, ensuring that every child receives the best possible start to their academic journey. Stakeholders, including teachers, parents, and local communities, are encouraged to collaborate and contribute to the success of this initiative, shaping a brighter future for the children of Odisha.