Karnataka's Chikodi District Launches Intensive Night Study Program for SSLC Students
In a determined effort to boost academic performance, the Chikodi educational district in Karnataka has rolled out a groundbreaking night-study initiative specifically targeting students preparing for the SSLC (Secondary School Leaving Certificate) examinations. Spearheaded by Deputy Director of Public Instruction (DDPI) RS Sitaram, this program focuses on schools with historically low results, where students will now stay overnight on campus to receive focused instruction from trained educators and coaches.
Aiming to Reclaim Past Academic Glory
The Chikodi district, which once ranked among the top three in the state, is striving to recapture its former academic excellence. Last year, schools in both the Belagavi and Chikodi educational districts secured positions within the state's top 20 in SSLC results. Historically, these districts were consistently in the top 10, prompting the School Education and Literacy Departments to implement rigorous measures to enhance teaching and learning outcomes.
Officials have taken a hands-on approach, guiding SSLC children by staying overnight in government, aided, and unaided high schools that recorded the poorest results. This initiative is designed to instill courage and confidence in the students, fostering a supportive learning environment.
Comprehensive Implementation Across the District
The Chikodi educational district encompasses a vast network of 1,919 government schools, 310 private institutions, and 610 aided primary and high schools. Out of the 607 high schools in the district, 194 are government-run. The night-study program is being implemented in the eight zones of Chikodi Educational District: Chikodi, Nippani, Hukkeri, Athani, Kagwad, Raibag, Gokak, and Mudalagi.
Coaches and trained teachers are residing in schools with the lowest results, conducting special classes during their stay. Education experts are providing targeted instruction, while children from economically disadvantaged backgrounds are being offered accommodation, meals, and snacks on campus.
Community Involvement and Safety Measures
According to school education and literacy officials, the department has identified students who are lagging in their studies. A community-wide message is being disseminated in villages, urging families to switch off televisions and mobile phones from 8 PM to 10 PM until the SSLC exams conclude. This collective effort aims to minimize distractions and create a conducive study atmosphere.
Night classes are being held in schools, with teachers and students studying together, which has reportedly increased the self-confidence of the children. The education department, in collaboration with the respective high schools, has ensured security and basic facilities for the boarding schools. Key officials, including Chikodi Assistant Commissioner Subhash Sampagavi and Tahsildar Rajesh Burli, have actively supported the initiative through their participation.
Statements from Education Authorities
DDPI RS Sitaram of Chikodi emphasized that the program is tailored to help academically backward students achieve better performance in the SSLC examinations by providing them with skilled teachers. Meanwhile, Leelavati Hiremath, DDPI of Belagavi, highlighted additional steps taken in the Belagavi Educational District, such as the establishment of "Oduva Mane" (Reading House) in residential schools.
In Belagavi, special teachers will guide children daily from 4 PM to 10 PM, with safety protocols ensuring that class sessions for girls conclude by 8 PM. This holistic approach underscores the district's commitment to improving educational outcomes through innovative and supportive measures.
