Punjab government has made Punjabi as a main subject in all schools across the state, regardless of the educational board affiliation. Under the new directive, any student’s education certificate will be considered null and void if they do not pass the tenth class examination in Punjabi.
Key Highlights
Legal Framework:
- The move is in line with the Punjab Learning of Punjabi and Other Languages Act, 2008, which states that “Punjabi shall be taught as a compulsory subject in all schools from class 1 to 10.”
- The Act further mandates that no board or institution shall award a matriculation certificate unless the student has passed the tenth class exam in Punjabi.
Uniform Application Across Boards:
- The requirement applies to all schools in Punjab, including those affiliated with the Punjab School Education Board (PSEB), Central Board of Secondary Education (CBSE), and Council for the Indian School Certificate Examinations (CISCE).
- CBSE has confirmed that Punjabi will be included in the revised draft of its curriculum scheme next year, which also plans to introduce board exams twice a year.
Significance and Impact
Cultural Preservation:
- This initiative aims to preserve and promote Punjabi language and culture among future generations.
Educational Uniformity:
- Ensures a consistent learning framework across all schools in Punjab, strengthening regional identity.
Policy Enforcement:
- Reinforces the Punjab government’s commitment to making Punjabi a core component of the school curriculum, irrespective of the board.