Daijiworld Media Network – Panaji

Panaji, Sep 6: Chief Minister Pramod Sawant, at the state Teachers’ Day function, voiced concern over the rising preference for private unaided schools in Goa, noting that 141 such schools now have more students than 773 government schools.

Citing a recent report, Sawant said the English medium of instruction was a major factor attracting parents, but stressed that government and aided schools have stronger infrastructure and better-trained teachers. “We have English teachers in every government school. Our teachers undergo regular training and upgrades. Experts say the mother tongue is the best medium to learn in,” he said, appealing to parents to look at government schools positively.

He pointed out that private unaided schools are not bound by salary rules, which could result in unqualified teachers, unlike government and aided schools where training is compulsory.

For the first time, ‘Mhaji Lab, Bari Lab’ awards carrying Rs 2–3 lakh were presented to schools with the best laboratories to further upgrade their facilities.

Sawant also assured complete transparency in the state best teacher awards, stating that for six years he had never recommended anyone’s name. “The committee selects on merit. Those who won did so through selfless work, not with the award in mind,” he said.

The chief minister reaffirmed that the government will continue to strengthen public education across Goa.