Goa Education Matters

In March this year, when the Goa government issued a draft notification to shift the academic year start to April instead of June, parents across the state raised their voices in protest - Letters were written, emails were sent, objections were submitted in response to the notification in the official gazette. Reasoned arguments were laid out -  the extreme April heat, lack of school infrastructure, water and electricity shortages, and a glaring absence of consultation. And yet— these objections were dismissed as being “without merit.” Fast forward to July, and the consequences are plain to see. Children across Goa have been made to attend school through peak summer heat.  In a small but revealing parent survey conducted in March, over 80% of respondents rated the April heat as "highly uncomfortable." Several reported cases of dehydration, rashes, exhaustion. Most schools lacked even basic cooling facilities. Some classrooms had just two fans in a class of 50 students. The qu...

Have you ever felt confused about what NEP 2020 actually means for your child’s education? You’re not alone. In Goa today, many parents, teachers—even school heads—are being told that a wave of big changes is happening in education. New academic calendars, new exams, new policies. All in the name of something called “NEP 2020.” But here’s the problem: very few people have actually read the policy. And as a result, we’re being given half-truths, rushed decisions, and confusing circulars— without any clear explanation of what NEP 2020 is really about! That’s why we’ve created this simple guide—to help you, as a parent or concerned citizen, understand: What NEP 2020 truly says What it’s trying to achieve Why it’s a policy worth supporting And how the way it’s being implemented in Goa is, sadly, far from what was promised At Goa Education Matters, we are advocates for the NEP’s real vision: one that puts children, equity, and learning at the centre. But we also believe you can’t support ...

We’ve got good news for all those who registered for the “Share Your Story: Essay Writing Contest” — and for those who were still thinking about participating!   The last date to submit your entry has been extended to June 12, 2025. We understand that sometimes life gets busy — school, exams, work, and everything else. So we’re giving you a little more time to reflect, write, and share your experiences. What’s the Contest About? We want to hear from you, about how you’ve experienced the implementation of the National Education Policy (NEP) in Goa. Your essay can highlight: Positive changes you’ve noticed Challenges or concerns Hopes and expectations for the future Every voice matters. Every story counts. Submission Details (Updated) Theme: My Experience with NEP Implementation in Goa: Challenges and Opportunities Word Limit: 250 to 1000 words Languages Accepted: English, Konkani (Devanagari or Romi), or Hindi Formats: Typed (Word or PDF) OR scanned handwritten essays Send to: ...

If you've been meaning to share your story, now’s the time! The "Share Your Story: Essay Writing Contest" is about to close — and we don’t want you to miss out. The final day to submit your entry is tomorrow: June 7, 2025. We’ve received some wonderful entries so far — heartfelt stories, sharp reflections, and inspiring experiences around the implementation of the National Education Policy (NEP) in Goa . But we know there are more voices out there waiting to be heard — maybe yours? A Quick Review: Theme: My Experience with NEP Implementation in Goa: Challenges and Opportunities Word Limit: 250 to 1000 words Languages: English, Konkani (Devanagari or Romi), or Hindi How to Submit: Email your essay to goaeducationmatters@gmail.com Subject Line: "Contest Submission" Format: Typed (Word/PDF) or scanned handwritten version What’s in it for you? Cash prizes for top 3 winners Consolation and special mention prizes Digital certificates for all participants A ...

This summer, the Goa government pushed through a drastic change to our children’s academic calendar—starting the school year in the peak heat of April instead of the usual June. Parents, teachers, and even school heads across the state raised the alarm: health risks, logistical chaos, and inadequate school infrastructure would make this move disastrous. They were right. And yet, despite formal objections, widespread public campaigns, and even a pending High Court petition, the Directorate of Education went ahead. Why? - Because they could. Not because they should. A Decision Without Dialogue The shift was proposed just five days before it was to be implemented, on a weekend no less, giving families no real chance to respond. And when they did—thousands of them—it was dismissed as “having no merit.” This is despite strong objections pointing out: No legal or policy mandate (NEP 2020 or NCFSE 2023) requires Goa to adopt an April start. Goa already meets or exceeds the required number of...

Calling ALL students in Goa! Have you been affected by the implementation of the National Education Policy (NEP) in your school? Do you have a story to share about the challenges you've faced or the opportunities you've discovered? We're excited to announce an essay writing contest where you can share your experiences and thoughts about NEP implementation in Goa. This is your chance to voice your opinions and help shape the future of education in our state. Eligibility The contest is open to students studying in schools in Goa (especially Class 9th and above) who have experienced the implementation of NEP in their educational journey.  Contest Timeline Last Date to Register: May 7, 2025 Last Date for Submission: June 7, 2025 Result Announcement: July 7, 2025 How to Participate Register for the contest by May 7, 2025, by filling up this Google form . (We will send a copy of the Rules, Guidelines and further details to all who have registered) Write an essay (250-1000 wor...

This year, for the very first time, schools across Goa opened their doors in April—yes, right in the middle of our sizzling summer heat! ☀️🔥 While this shift aligns with broader educational reforms and calendar synchronization, it has brought with it a whole bunch of questions, adjustments, and let’s be honest… a lot of sweat. Take The Survey - Click Here If you're a student, parent, teacher, or school staff member, you’ve probably got a thing or two to say about this big change. Has the heat been too much to handle? Are kids coping okay? Have routines at home or school shifted? We want to hear it all—the good, the tough, and the surprisingly manageable. 🎯 Why Your Feedback Matters This is a historic shift for Goa’s education system, and your voice can shape how future April starts are handled. Your responses will help: Improve school infrastructure and safety in hot weather Guide academic planning and scheduling Support students' health and well-being Influence future govern...

The National Education Policy (NEP) 2020 is a comprehensive framework aimed at transforming India's education system to meet the needs of the 21st century. In Goa, the government has implemented changes to the education system, including a new academic year schedule and amendments to the Goa School Education Rules, 1986. However, the impact of these changes on achieving NEP 2020 goals is a subject of debate. Assessing the Impact on NEP 2020 Goals The changes implemented in Goa may not necessarily align with the principles, goals, and objectives of NEP 2020. In fact, the rushed implementation of these changes has sparked protests from parents and students, who are concerned about the potential negative impact on the education system in Goa. Some of the concerns include: Lack of Infrastructure: The new academic year schedule may put additional pressure on schools that are already struggling with inadequate infrastructure. Disruption of Family Routines: The changed schedule may disr...

The recent and sudden decision by the Directorate of Education, Govt. of Goa, to start the new academic year from April 1, 2025, instead of the traditional June start, has sparked widespread protests from parents all over Goa.  This article provides a detailed account of the events that have unfolded, from the initial announcement to the court proceedings and public demonstrations. The Beginning of the Controversy On January 30, 2025, the Directorate of Education released a circular to all schools announcing the new academic year start date. Parents began expressing their concerns about the decision, citing reasons such as extreme summer temperatures, disruption of family routines, and poor infrastructure . Additionally, parents sought clarity on other issues, including medium of instruction, language selection, removal of foreign languages, and choices for vocational subjects. Parental Resistance Gains Momentum As the news spread, parents started organizing and forming groups to v...

  The recent controversy over schools in Goa shifting their academic year from June to April sparked widespread protests from parents. However, this issue is just the tip of the iceberg. The real concern lies in the hasty and flawed implementation of the National Education Policy (NEP) in Goa, which is causing distress to parents and children alike. The NEP: A Well-Intentioned but Flawed Reform? The NEP aims to transform India’s education system, but  its implementation in Goa has been marred by a lack of transparency, inadequate infrastructure, and insufficient teacher training.  This has led to  confusion, anxiety, and uncertainty among parents and students. The Hurried Implementation Goa’s rush to implement NEP without proper planning, resources, and stakeholder engagement has raised several concerns: Lack of Infrastructure:  Are schools equipped to handle the changes brought about by NEP? Insufficient Teacher Training:  Are teachers adequately prepared ...

  As we launch Goa Education Matters, we’re driven by a simple yet profound belief:  every child in Goa deserves access to quality education that empowers them to thrive . But we also know that the reality on the ground is complex, especially with the introduction of the National Education Policy (NEP). This blog is our attempt to shine a light on these complexities, to explore the challenges and opportunities that lie ahead, and to spark meaningful conversations about the future of education in our state. What’s on Our Mind From the practical implications of NEP’s rollout to the stories of students, teachers, and parents navigating the system, we’ll be diving into the issues that matter most to Goa’s educational community. We’ll share insights, analysis, and personal narratives, all aimed at fostering a deeper understanding of what’s working, what’s not, and what could be done differently. A Call to Conversation This blog isn’t just about sharing information; it’s about start...