Karnataka Govt's language policy in education confusing all

[Harold F. Schiffman]

>>From SOUTHERN NEWS - KARNATAKA August 9, 2005

Govts language policy in education confusing all
Monday July 18 2005 12:17 IST

BHADRAVATI: The language policy of the government in education has
confused the students, parents as well as the teachers, said K
Vasudevachar, president of the Makkala Sahitya Vedike, Shimoga district
unit. He was addressing the inauguration of the teachers workshop
organised by the taluk unit of the Vedike on Saturday at Lions Club
Multipurpose Service Project Center.

Children are naturally creative. They have the ability to learn many
languages. But, forcing language learning much against their choice is not
wise thinking. Governments stand on introducing English language at
primary level of education has messed everyone. Only teachers who have a
better interaction with children can guide the government in this matter.
In fact, there was discrimination in valuation of answer papers written in
Kannada medium. A strong agitation had to be launched to fight against
this and after that students of Kannada medium instruction started scoring
well in examinations.

The medium of instruction should not become an issue. Teachers are the
best judges to decide the choice of students. They should hold a talk,
pass a resolution and forward it to the government. The government should
also consider such resolutions received and give a serious thought before
introducing the bill in the Assembly, he noted. Taluk unit president of
Vedike Dr. G M Nataraj said that the assassination of student culture can
endanger the countrys welfare. Teachers have the onerous responsibility of
shaping their future, he stressed in his prefatory talk.

Students of SAV School and Shamshuddin of Kallihal Primary School sung the
poetry composed by Shishu Sangameshwar and Purandaradasa respectively.
Shamshuddin singing Ambiga Naninna Nambide received the applause by the
teachers and guests. Vedikes district general secretary Gayatri and taluk
treasurer Gururajachar gave cash incentives to the boy. Secretary of Lions
Club TG Chandrappa was also present.

Noted litterateur and poet Somashekar handled the training session in the
workshop. Apeksha Manjunatha gave a brief account of Shishu Sangameshwaras
efforts in developing the childrens literature. Inaugural function began
with Arpitha and B Jagadish Kumar singing Kuvempus work O nanna chetana. J
S Nagabhushana welcomed.

State convener of Makkala Sahitya Vedike G V Sangameshwar presided.
Gururajachar proposed a vote of thanks.


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