(By Aryavart International University, India)
Arunkumar R.Kulkarni
Vol. 2, Issue 1, Jul-Dec 2016
Abstract:
This paper presents the changes in structures and strategies in the management of elementary education in Karnataka over the period of time for achieving education for all. The challenges in elementary education and recent programmes and innovative actions to meet the challenges have been presented. The paper finds that the state has achieved commendable task of universalizing primary education by providing access to schooling for more than 99 per cent children. It has almost resolved the issues of access to schools and enrolment mainly with the initiatives of Sarva Shiksha Abhiyana Mission which was implemented in the state since 2001-02. The increase in the number of private schools has also significantly contributed for achieving education for all. DISE data indicate that there has been many fold increase in the private schools in recent years. These are mainly English medium schools located in urban and semi-urban areas providing education mainly to middle and rich class of people. The RTE act has been implemented from the year 2012-13. It stipulates that private schools reserve 25 per cent of seats at the entry level for children belonging to ‘disadvantaged groups’ and ‘weaker sections’. Though the state has achieved universal coverage, there are number of challenges that still need to be achieved. Providing quality education is one of a major challenge. There are regional imbalances, gender disparities, educational backwardness among the weaker sections, etc. Recently, in an effort to provide quality education, the state government has taken the help of NGO like Azim Premji Foundation and Akshara Foundation. Such management issues relating to elementary education in the state of Karnataka in India form the core discussion of the paper.