CBSE curriculum, 211 schools and 25 colleges proposed by panel for minority education revamp

The low literacy rate amongst the minorities is one of the concerns for the government. The stats of 2011 Census revealed the fact that the literacy rate of the largest minority community among all minority communities ‘Muslim community' had stood at 68.53% which is less than the national average of 72.98%. Not only the low literacy rate but the poor quality of education is making the problem more complicated for them.

A panel was appointed by Centre, headed by former parliamentary affairs secretary Afzal Amanullah, to look at the issue.  The Panel submitted its report on Thursday to minority affairs ministry suggesting few changes to improve the current situation as below:

• 211 schools are proposed to be set up in the areas such as Anantnag, Darbhanga. These schools should provide education free of cost and must follow CBSE examination pattern.
• Five national institutions should be established in the fields like science and technology, health sciences and architectures; providing co-education in order to improve overall literacy rate among Muslim women as well.
• These institutions should be opened for all the students, not only for a minority. But those should be set up in minority-dominated areas so that the local CBSE students can have an advantage.
• Colleges should be in constant touch with the offices of Skill Corporation of India so that they remain updated with the local workforce requirements.

The needs of all minorities have been considered with a focus on imparting secular education. The provision for attending Madrasas before school hours is also there for those willing to pursue theological studies. With this report, a committee of 11 members is constituted by the minority affairs ministry to provide recommendations on the educational development of the minorities.