The Times of India            11.12.2013

PCMC plans semi-English divisions in 136 schools

PUNE: The school board of Pimpri Chinchwad Municipal Corporation (PCMC) will start a division of standard I in the semi-English medium in each of the 136 municipal primary schools from June 2014 to boost enrolment. Science and mathematics will be taught in English while the remaining subjects will be taught in Marathi.

Board chairman Fazal Shaikh told TOI, "There is a growing tendency among parents to enrol their wards in English medium schools. There is a decline in the number of students taking admissions in the municipal primary schools. Hence, the board has decided to start one division of standard I in semi-English medium in all 136 municipal primary schools on an experimental basis. Teachers who have good command over English will teach the students in this division."

"If we get an overwhelming response to the initiative, we may start another division from the next academic year," Shaikh said.

There are problems like students not receiving free school uniforms, textbooks, notebooks, sweaters, shoes and other school items at the start of the academic year. Poor standard of education has also affected enrolment in civic schools.

Shaikh said the sports competitions at municipal primary schools for the 2013-14 academic year will continue till December 18. The competitions are being held in two categories - one for students of standards I to IV and second for students from standards V to VII.

Individual competitions will be held for boys and girls in 100m running, long jump and high jump. Team competitions will be held in kabaddi, kho-kho, lezhim, patriotic song singing and folk dance.