Chizokho Vero
October 2,
Kohima (MExN): Alternative Schooling, a part of Sarva Shiksha Abhiyan (SSA) framework is being implemented in Nagaland. Sources said, Education Guarantee Scheme addresses the inaccessible habitation (school-less habitation) where there is no formal School within the radius of 1 km and at least 15-25 children of 6-14 years age group, who are not going to school are available. In remote habitations, like hilly areas, even for 10 children, an EGS can be opened, it said.
“In Nagaland, this scheme is going to be implemented during 2005-2006. Under this scheme, out of 5113 school children, 125 Centres in Nagaland would be covered”, according to Khukiye Awomi, RA in charge of EGS and AIE.
The Alternative and Innovative Education has been grouped into two categories. AIE can be opened within the radius of 1 km and is available for 15-25 non-schooling children and drop-outs.
Children in the age group of 6-10 years would be in non-residential schooling for 6 months duration course to enable them to join the formal education according to their performance and ability.
Children in the age group of 11-14 years will be in the residential camp schooling for 6 months duration course to enable them also to join the formal education system according to their performance.
The AIE had been successfully implemented by the Nagaland Baptist Church Council (NBCC) during 2004-2005. It covered 1024 Villages and wards.
The total number of children enrolled was 19,428. Children admitted in the formal school were 11,012, Awomi said.
Due to tight schedule of activities, the NBCC could not continue the project during 2005-06.
However, the SSA Nagaland with support from various Associations and NGO’s could continue to implement the scheme. Altogether, 25 NGO’s have agreed to help in implementing the project. About 30,000 children will be covered during the academic session, Awomi added.
Recently, Nagaland School Education Minister Imkong L.Imchen opined that the Naga Students’ Federation (NSF) could do something good for the AIE programme.
The NSF too has expressed its interest to take up the scheme as it is to do with the rapid growth of education in the State.
