West Bengal School Education Reforms: Major Changes Announced

West Bengal School Education Reforms are set to focus on improving school infrastructure, academic performance, sports, extracurricular activities, scholarships, curriculum and transparent teacher recruitment. West Bengal Chief Minister Suvendu Adhikari announced a series of measures aimed at improving the overall quality of school education and creating better opportunities for students.

Speaking at an education programme, the Chief Minister outlined a broad reform agenda covering both academic and non-academic aspects of schooling. The proposed measures include performance-based recognition for schools, a new merit scholarship, improvements in school facilities, changes to recruitment procedures and greater emphasis on sports and cultural activities.

Schools to Receive Recognition for Performance

As part of the West Bengal School Education Reforms, schools will be recognised and rewarded for their performance. The move is aimed at encouraging institutions to improve academic standards and provide a better learning environment for students.

The Chief Minister emphasised the importance of creating schools where students can develop across multiple areas rather than focusing solely on classroom education.

Vidyasagar Merit Scholarship Announced

The government has also announced the Vidyasagar Merit Scholarship. Under the proposed scheme, meritorious students who receive opportunities to pursue studies at national and international levels will be supported.

The initiative is intended to encourage talented students to pursue higher academic opportunities and recognise merit among learners.

Greater Focus on Sports and Extracurricular Activities

A major component of the West Bengal School Education Reforms will be the revival and expansion of extracurricular activities.

The Chief Minister said activities such as Bratachari and NCC should receive greater importance in schools. He also expressed concern that physical education and sports had not received adequate attention and said this would now change.

Traditional and Modern Sports

The government plans to strengthen sports participation in schools, including traditional games such as Kho-Kho and Kabaddi alongside modern sporting disciplines.

Special attention will reportedly be given to developing sports infrastructure in North Bengal and the western districts of the state.

The broader objective is to give students opportunities to develop physical fitness, teamwork, discipline and sporting skills alongside academic abilities.

Concern Over Mobile Phone Use Among Students
The Chief Minister also raised concerns over the growing influence of mobile phones among students, describing it as a serious issue requiring difficult decisions.