Empowering Future Generations: Mandatory Education in Indigenous Khasi and Garo Languages for Meghalaya’s Primary Students

Meghalaya’s Education Department Proposes Compulsory Language Education for Students Up to Class IV

In a landmark move, Meghalaya’s education department has released a discussion paper proposing the implementation of compulsory Khasi and Garo language education for students up to class IV across the state’s schools. The proposal aims to promote the rich cultural heritage of the indigenous communities by incorporating the languages into the existing curriculum.

The discussion paper outlines a unique approach, where Khasi/Jaintia students will learn basic Garo, while Garo students will learn basic Khasi, under the “sister language exposure” component. Officials claim this initiative aligns with the National Education Policy 2020, which emphasizes the importance of linguistic diversity and cultural inclusivity in education.

The education department has given stakeholders, including educators, parents, students, community leaders, and government officials, until May 9 to submit their views and suggestions on the proposal. While the move is expected to promote linguistic diversity, it also poses a challenge in terms of recruiting trained language teachers. To address this issue, the department is considering introducing bilingual textbooks that can be used by teachers proficient in either Khasi or Garo to teach basic elements of the other language.

Commissioner & Secretary in-charge Education Vijay Kumar Mantri acknowledged the challenge of recruiting trained language teachers, stating, “We recognize the constraint in having well-trained language teachers, especially for primary schools. Introducing bilingual textbooks is one possible solution to address this issue, given that both languages share the same script, allowing teachers to teach basic elements of the other language.”

The proposal has garnered attention, with the education department planning to rationalize other subjects if new languages are added to the curriculum to prevent an increase in student workload. The implementation of the new language education program will be closely monitored to ensure its success and to make necessary adjustments.

As the education department seeks public feedback on the proposal, stakeholders are eagerly waiting to share their thoughts on this innovative initiative. With the aim of promoting linguistic diversity and cultural inclusivity, the Meghalaya government’s proposal has the potential to set a precedent for other states to follow.

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Original Source: https://www.indiatodayne.in/meghalaya/story/meghalaya-proposes-compulsory-khasi-garo-languages-in-primary-classes-1197401-2025-04-11?utm_source=rssfeed
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Publish Date: 2025-04-11 09:54:00