Correspondent
In a groundbreaking move, the Central Board of Secondary Education (CBSE) has recently issued a significant circular emphasizing the importance of Multilingual Education and endorsing the use of mother tongue as a medium of instruction from pre-primary classes to class 12 in all CBSE-affiliated schools.
The circular, tweeted by the Chief Minister (CM) and Prime Minister (PM), has garnered immense attention and appreciation from educationists and language experts across the nation. This proactive step is aimed at fostering a more inclusive and culturally rich learning environment for students, recognizing the pivotal role language plays in shaping a child's understanding and cognitive development.
The circular underscores the manifold benefits of embracing Multilingual Education. Research has consistently shown that children who are educated in their mother tongue tend to grasp concepts more effectively and demonstrate improved academic performance. By using the mother tongue as a medium of instruction, students can better comprehend complex subjects and express their thoughts with clarity, leading to enhanced critical thinking and problem-solving abilities.
Additionally, this move promotes the preservation and celebration of regional languages and cultures. By encouraging the use of various languages in educational settings, CBSE aims to bridge the gap between traditional knowledge and modern education, fostering a sense of cultural pride among students and facilitating a deeper connection with their heritage.
Moreover, adopting a Multilingual Education approach can contribute to improved communication and social skills. When children learn in languages they are comfortable with, they are more likely to actively participate in classroom discussions, interact with peers confidently, and develop a strong sense of self-esteem.
The circular also addresses concerns about the potential impact of this change on English proficiency, a language widely acknowledged as a global means of communication. CBSE emphasizes that while mother tongue will be the medium of instruction, English will continue to be taught as a subject throughout all grades. This will ensure that students remain well-versed in English, enabling them to excel in a globalized world while maintaining a strong foundation in their native language.
Educators and parents have lauded this circular, as it aligns with international educational practices that recognize the significance of multilingualism in a child's holistic development. The move is expected to revolutionize the Indian education system by fostering a more inclusive, culturally diverse, and effective learning environment for students.
The recent circular by CBSE promoting Multilingual Education and advocating the use of mother tongue as a medium of instruction from pre-primary to class 12 is a landmark decision in the field of education. By nurturing language diversity and cultural identity, this initiative promises to empower students, enrich their learning experiences, and contribute to a more united and harmonious society.