Sindh Government’s New Framework for Private Schools: Focus on Academic Excellence and Student Well-being-Notification

GOVERNMENT OF SINDH
SCHOOL EDUCATION & LITERACY DEPARTMENT
DIRECTORATE OF INSPECTION & REGISTRATION OF PRIVAT INSTITUTIONS SINDH
Government Degree College for Women, Shahrah-e-Liaquat, Saddar Town, Karachi

Dated:  24/9/2024.

Guidelines for Enhancing Educational Standards in Privately Managed Schools

The teaching profession holds a unique and invaluable place in society, shaping the minds and futures of the next generation. Teachers are the cornerstone of intellectual development, guiding students not only toward academic excellence but also personal growth. Their dedication and expertise lay the foundation for the future success of their students. Recognizing the importance of this noble profession, it is imperative that schools continuously strive to enhance their teaching practices and create an environment conducive to holistic development.

However, there are growing concerns about the current practices in many private schools. Despite schools claiming adherence to high teaching standards, there has been an increase in students turning to tuition centers for additional academic support. It is troubling to observe that, in many classrooms of more than 25 students, the majority attend external tuition centers. This raises critical questions: Are all these students struggling academically? If schools are meeting educational standards, why is additional tuition necessary?

Moreover, when students achieve success, tuition centers often take credit, posting the students’ achievements on social media and promoting their faculty as superior. Simultaneously, schools claim that the success is a result of their teaching staff. In this scenario, parents are left bearing the financial burden of paying both school fees and tuition fees, placing them in a difficult position. More importantly, the students themselves suffer. The increased academic pressure leaves little time for physical activities or adequate rest, leading to rising cases of depression, anxiety, and physical ailments such as back and neck pain.

To address these challenges and foster a more supportive and balanced educational environment, we propose the following guidelines for school administrators:

1. Focus on Comprehensive Academic Support

Schools must place greater emphasis on supporting students who are academically struggling. Rather than encouraging a reliance on external tuition, schools should establish in-house remedial programs and provide additional help to those in need. A collaborative effort, where academically stronger students assist weaker peers, can also be promoted.

• Enhance Teacher-Student Interaction

Teachers must create a classroom atmosphere where students feel comfortable asking questions. Shouting at or discouraging students from inquiring further into subjects can lead to feelings of inadequacy, anxiety, and depression. Teachers should be trained to handle student queries with patience and care, fostering an environment of curiosity and learning rather than fear.

• Balanced Focus on Physical and Mental Well-being

Schools must strike a balance between academic rigor and the physical and emotional well-being of students. Daily schedules should include time for physical activities and breaks that allow students to recharge. Additionally, schools should educate students about the importance of sleep and self-care as part of a healthy lifestyle.

• Accountability for Classroom Success

School administrations should closely monitor classroom activities to ensure that learning is effective and comprehensive. Success should not be measured only by grades but also by how well students grasp concepts. Teachers must take responsibility for ensuring that every student is progressing and not simply passing without understanding.

• Professional Development

Evaluating a teacher’s commitment to improving their skills by attending workshops, pursuing advanced certifications, or engaging in continuous learning. Teaching Portfolio: Reviewing a collection of teaching materials, lesson plans, and student work samples that demonstrate the teacher’s planning, assessment, and instructional strategies.

• Fostering a Supportive and Inclusive Environment

Schools should nurture a culture of mutual respect and encouragement, where students of all levels are valued. Peer-to-peer learning, support groups, and mentorship programs should be implemented to help bridge the gap between stronger and weaker students, thereby reducing the need for external tuition.

By adopting these guidelines, schools can create an academic environment that prioritizes the well-being of students while promoting a culture of learning, support, and success. Teachers, administrators, and parents must work together to ensure that students receive the care and attention they need—both academically and emotionally–within the school setting.

ADDITIONAL DIRECTOR (REGISTRATION)
Directorate of Inspection & Registration of
Private Institution Sindh