Bhubaneswar: Centre’s decision to scrap the no-detention policy for students of classes 5 and 8 received mixed responses in the state. Several teachers welcomed the move, stating it would encourage students to take studies more seriously and maintain consistent academic performance. However, some educationists and parents felt that with detention back, students might feel additional pressure and argued the fear of failure could create unnecessary stress and anxiety.
Educationist Kamala Prasad Mohapatra said the move would strengthen the academic foundations of children. “By promoting children up to Class 8, there were repercussions in higher classes as students struggled in classes 9 and 10 to understand the concepts due to weak foundation.”
As per the notification issued by the ministry of education, students failing in these classes will get one chance to retake exams within two months. Those failing the re-test required to repeat the class.
“Provision of detention was there earlier. However, children were not given another chance in two months. This will not only ensure learning outcomes among children but will also fix accountability of teachers,” said Satyakam Mishra, educationist and former president of the Board of Secondary Education, Odisha. “Detention or repeating a class should not be seen as a student being weak in studies; rather, it will help in a stronger academic future,” Mishra added.
The no-detention policy will be scrapped in Kendriya Vidyalayas and Jawahar Navodaya Vidyalayas from the ongoing academic session. State govts will have to amend their respective state rules to implement it, sources said.
Convener of Odisha Abhibhabak Mahasangha (OAM), Basudev Bhatt, said, “This is a variation of Right to Education (RTE) Act. Though the govt has amended the rules, the objective with which it was introduced to reduce pressure and promote joyful learning will be violated.”
In case a student is detained, “the class teacher shall guide the child as well as the parents of the child, if necessary, and provide specialised inputs after identifying the learning gaps at various stages of assessment”, the notification added.