English as MOI from this year, Goa minister clarifies

Updated on: Wednesday, June 29, 2011

Goa Education Minister Atanasio Monserratte said the amendment granting recognition to English as a Medium of Instruction (MOI) in government-aided schools would come into effect from the current academic year.

"We are in the process and it will be implemented this academic year itself," Monserratte said.

Some newspapers reported that monitoring committee headed by the Chief Secretary had asked that MOI decision be be referred back to the cabinet.

But when asked, Monserratte said, "There is no question of referring it back to cabinet, which has already cleared the issue."

Grant of recognition to English as an MOI has led to protests in the state, with some groups claiming that the decision would spell doom for Konkani and Marathi medium schools.

The minister said he had already appointed a committee headed by education secretary V P Rao for implementation, which will give report by June 27.

Committee comprises Director of Higher Education Bhaskar Naik, Director of Education Celsa Pinto and Deputy Director of Education Anil Powar.

The Goa cabinet had decided to accept English as an MOI along with existing Konkani and Marathi in May this year.

English as MOI from this year, Goa minister clarifies

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