Patna: The state song and national anthem have become mandatory in government schools across Bihar. The Bihar Education Department has issued a new advisory for all government schools and madrasas. This advisory not only mandates the singing of the national anthem during morning prayers and dismissal, but also includes important instructions regarding the daily operations, teaching arrangements, and timetable of schools.
Directives from Director Sajjan R: These directives, issued by Director of Secondary Education Sajjan R, aim to make the education system more disciplined, effective, and student-friendly. According to the directives, schools run under the Sanskrit Board and Madrasa Board will also follow the same routine.
Half-hour prayer assembly: Primary to higher secondary schools will hold a prayer assembly every day from 9:30 a.m. to 10:00 a.m. The collective singing of the “Bihar Geet” will be mandatory. This will foster respect for the state’s history, culture, and identity among students. The singing of the national anthem will be ensured every day at dismissal time. Teachers and school administration must strictly adhere to this.
“Exams should not disrupt other classes”: The advisory includes several clear and important instructions regarding school timetables. The Director of Secondary Education stated that if board exams are underway in a school, only exam-related classes should not be suspended. Studies in other classes should continue without interruption. It will be the school management’s responsibility to ensure this. Regular classes for other students should continue even during board exams.
Principals will create routines: The Director stated that principals will determine their school’s routine based on the number of available teachers, subject-specific needs, and resources. Ensuring students complete the prescribed curriculum on time will be the principal’s primary responsibility. The department has directed that any negligence in completing the curriculum will not be tolerated. Regular monitoring will be conducted.
Every teacher will assign homework to students: Each teacher will be responsible for assigning homework to students every day and ensuring its verification the following day. According to the department, proper homework assignment fosters discipline, regular practice, and a deep understanding of the subject. Therefore, all teachers must ensure that homework does not become a formality but is directly connected to the teaching process.
Boys and girls will sit together: The Education Department stated that in general schools, boys and girls will sit together in the same classroom. Separate classes will not be conducted for them. The department argues that co-education strengthens social balance, equality, and mutual understanding among students. This system will be implemented in all schools without exception.
Education officials will conduct inspections: District Education Officers (DEOs) and Regional Education Officers (BEOs) have been instructed to conduct periodic inspections to ensure that all instructions are being followed, from prayer meetings to completing the syllabus. Action will be taken if any complaint is received. Any laxity in mandatory student welfare activities will not be tolerated.
