Successful push for reforms, but challenges remain

KARNATAKA's education department had an eventful year, sticking to its promises and rolling out several key initiatives.

- RISHITA KHANNA @Bengaluru

KARNATAKA's education department had an eventful year, sticking to its promises and rolling out several key initiatives. From introducing the three-term examination system to reinstating the three-year degree programme in public universities and affiliated colleges, the department achieved much of what it set out to do. But is this enough to address the ongoing challenges in the education sector?

While implementing new schemes is crucial, the education department must address the long-standing gaps that persist. Despite years of data pointing to issues like teacher shortages in rural areas, high dropout rates, crumbling school infrastructure, and declining research output, these challenges remain unaddressed.

2024 also witnessed the introduction of three annual examinations for Class 10 and Class 12 students, aimed at reducing academic pressure. While this move provides students with multiple opportunities to improve their scores, it also raises questions about the long-term effectiveness of such a system.