Supreme Court Asks CBSE Not to Introduce Third Language in Class 9
The Supreme Court of India has expressed its concern about concerns over the Central Board of Secondary Education (CBSE) decision to establish the third language as a requirement from Class 9, noting that it could put unnecessary academic stress on students who are preparing for their board exam years. At a recent hearing the Court orally advised the Centre not to establish the new language at Grade 9 level, and suggested that learning a new language should be initiated earlier in the student's education.
The remarks were made during a hearing that dealt with how to implement the "three-language" policy in the National Education Policy (NEP) 2020. Although the Court didn't issue an official order regarding the law, it's comments have rekindled the ongoing debate on the timing and effectiveness of the multilingual curriculum within CBSE schools.
Supreme Court Questions the Timing
A Bench consisting of justices B.V. Nagarathna and R. Mahadevan asked the reason why students should start the process of learning another language as early as Class 9, a period where academic demands are high.
The Court noted it was:
“Please do not have a 3rd language that is not a part of the Class 9 level. This will only increase the anxiety levels of the students. “
The judges suggested that if a government wants to introduce a second language, it is better to start in either Class 5 or in Class 6. giving students more time to develop proficiency before they enter secondary school.
Concern Over Student Stress
The Court stated that the class of 9 begins the preparation for the secondary examination cycle. The introduction of a different subject at this time especially a language could lead to unintended academic stress.
The Bench says that a earlier exposure to a language other than English gives students the opportunity to develop gradually, without affecting their preparation for exams at board level.
Background of the Three-Language Policy
CBSE has introduced the updated language framework for the academic session in order to be aligned with the guidelines of NEP 2020.
In accordance with the guidelines:
- Students must learn three languages.
- Two out of three need to be Indian languages.
- Schools have been granted the ability to transition with some flexibility.
- CBSE have also made some easements in the current batch to make the transition easier.
This policy raised questions from schools, parents as well as education professionals about the availability of teachers, textbooks, and timelines for implementation.
CBSE's Position
CBSE has been defending the updated language policy, noting the following:
- Many of the affiliated schools are already in compliance with the requirement of three languages.
- In most schools, teachers are capable of teaching at minimum one Indian language.
- The transitional measures have been enacted to assist schools.
- This policy is designed to improve multilingual education in conformity with NEP 2020.
The Board insists that the changes are intended to encourage the diversity of languages while giving schools the ability to adapt during implementation.
No Final Decision Yet
- It is crucial to remember that the Court’s comments were oral remarks made during the hearing and don’t represent a final decision or guidance. The legal challenges to application of the policy are unanswered which is why it is expected that the Court will continue to consider the case before making a final decision.
- For the time being the policy of three languages by CBSE will remain in force in the event of any new directives given by the Court.
- What Schools and Students Should Do
- The case remains in limbo:
- Schools should follow the official CBSE guidelines and circulars for implementation.
- Students must follow the language curriculum set by their school.
- Parents should trust official reports by CBSE along with the Supreme Court rather than speculation or reports that are not official.
- Schools that are facing challenges with implementation need to wait for additional instructions from CBSE.
Looking Ahead
The Supreme Court’s opinions have raised questions about the introduction of the requirement of a third language in the level of Class 9 in particular due to the possibility of a burden on academics for students who are preparing for board exams. In recommending that further language acquisition begin in Class 5 or 6 years old, the Court has highlighted the importance of planning curriculum for children based on their age and gradual language development.
While the legal proceedings go on the outcome of the case will affect the way CBSE implements its policy on multilingual education in the coming years. In the meantime schools and students need to remain in compliance with the official CBSE guidelines as they await an official Supreme Court decision.
