Educationists unite to urge political parties, prioritize educational development in manifestos

Educationists across Maharashtra have united in a resounding call to political parties, urging them to prioritise educational development in their manifestos. 

This collective appeal, endorsed by prominent figures such as Bhalchandra Mungekar, Hemchandra Pradhan, Vivek Monteiro, Girish Samant, Vijay Naik, Pramod Nigudkar, social activist Mukta Dabholkar, senior journalist Shubhada Chaukar and actor Chinmayee Sumit, among others, seeks to address the critical need for educational reform in society.

At the heart of the appeal lies a bold resolution: allocating 6% of the gross domestic product (GDP) towards education by both central and state governments. 

Currently, the provision for education in the Maharashtra state budget falls drastically short, comprising less than 14% of the total expenditure and less than 2.3% of the state’s GDP. 

To rectify this disparity, the appeal advocates for a phased increase in the provision of school education, aiming to reach 25% of total expenditure within three years, ultimately constituting 4% of the state's GDP by 2027.

The appeal also highlights the need to connect pre-primary education with primary schools. It suggests that kindergartens should work closely with primary schools, and Anganwadis should be part of the same system.

Some experts also suggest making separate laws for pre-primary education to ensure that it covers everything well and meets high-quality standards.