Three-language formula in the offing in Karnataka

[Francis M. Hult]

The Hindu

http://www.hindu.com/thehindu/holnus/004200606071540.htm

Three-language formula in the offing in Karnataka 

Bangalore, June 7 (PTI): The Karnataka Government is contemplating introducing 
a three-language formula at the primary school level under which it envisages 
introducing English as a subject from first standard in Kannada medium 
schools. 

The issue would come up for discussion at the next cabinet meeting and a final 
decision was expected to be taken by this month end, Minister for Primary and 
Secondary Education Basavaraj Horatti told reporters here. 

Under the proposed formula,the Government intends to make learning of Kannada 
compulsory in all schools including private from first to fifth standard, 
introduce English as a subject in all Kannada medium schools, particularly in 
Government schools from first standard and withdraw its earlier order making 
learning of Kannada an optional subject in schools run by linguistic 
minorities, he said. 

The Government was keen on introducing English from first standard in its 
schools to check the onslaught of English medium schools and exodus of 
children to such schools. 

The strength in Government schools has been dwindling as parents have been 
sending their wards to private english medium schools even in rural areas. 

However,opinion among academicians and political leaders remain divided over 
the issue of introducing English with a section favouring it and other 
opposing, insisting that Kannada be made compulsory. 

Private managements, which secured permission to start English medium schools 
prior to 1994, have refused to make learning of Kannada compulsory.