Govt working to reduce non-academic burden on teachers, says Bhuse

Pune: School education minister Dada Bhuse said the state government is making efforts to reduce the non-academic workload on teachers while focusing on quality and skill-based education for students across all sections of society.Speaking at the 62nd foundation day celebration of Bharati Vidyapeeth, Bhuse said govt was working towards ensuring that children from ordinary families receive quality education in line with the vision of ‘Viksit Bharat'. He added that if Bharati Vidyapeeth prepares a comprehensive framework for delivering quality education, the state government would positively consider adopting it.On the occasion of the foundation day, senior journalist Rajdeep Sardesai was presented with the ‘Dr. Patangrao Kadam Memorial Award' for his contribution to journalism.Bhuse said, "Value education from the primary level is necessary to instil patriotism, respect and commitment towards the nation among students. Referring to changing technological and social realities. Self-defence training for girl students would also be introduced as part of educational reforms."The minister said govt was simultaneously working on improving basic infrastructure in schools, including clean drinking water and hygienic sanitation facilities. "At a time when several Marathi-medium government schools are witnessing declining enrolment, it is important to preserve love for the mother tongue while promoting practical and skill-oriented education," he said.Revenue minister Chandrashekhar Bawankule, who was also present at the programme, said quality education and transparent governance are essential for achieving the vision of a developed India.Shivajirao Kadam, chancellor of the university and Vishwajeet Kadam, secretary and president, were also present. Vishwajeet Kadam said, "Bharati Vidyapeeth was founded by late Patangrao Kadam to make education accessible to the masses. Thousands of students educated here are contributing to the development of Maharashtra and the country."The extended building of Bharati Vidyapeeth College of Fine Arts was inaugurated by the dignitaries. The anniversary special issue of ‘Vichar Bharati' and the Vishwa-Bharati Newsletter were also formally released by them. Kadam said the institution has secured more than 100 patents and research grants worth over Rs 100 crore.