Guwahati, 14th December: In a groundbreaking educational reform, the Assam government, led by Education Minister Ranoj Pegu, has unveiled plans to integrate tribal languages into the basic education curriculum.
Set to roll out in the upcoming school session, this initiative aims to offer textbooks in various tribal languages, including Mising, Deuri, Dimasa, Tiwa, and others.
The State Council of Educational Research and Training (SCERT) has been entrusted with the responsibility of providing these textbooks.
Aligned with the National Education Policy (NEP) 2020, which advocates for starting primary education in students’ mother tongues before transitioning to regional or English languages at the secondary level, this move stems from consultations with linguistic organizations representing diverse communities.
The decision recognizes Assam’s linguistic diversity, boasting over 55 languages and dialects. While Assamese remains the principal language, the government’s initiative seeks to preserve and enhance the educational experience for tribal students by teaching them in their native languages.
Bodo, already approved as a medium of teaching, serves as a precedent, with others like Mising, Rabha, Dimasa, Deori, Khampti, Turung, and Phake intended for primary-level instruction.
By embracing tribal languages in the education system, Assam aims to foster inclusive education, respecting and promoting the linguistic heritage of its indigenous populations.
This strategic move is poised to positively impact the academic performance and cultural identity of tribal students, ensuring a foundational education in a language deeply connected to their roots.
The initiative not only aligns with the NEP 2020 but also reflects a commitment to acknowledging and celebrating Assam’s rich cultural and linguistic tapestry.