The West Bengal government has announced plans to expand primary education by introducing Class 5 in an additional 2,335 primary schools starting from the next academic year. This expansion aims to bring primary education under the Right of Children to Free and Compulsory Education Act in the state, an official stated on Sunday. Currently, around 18,000 primary schools in West Bengal already offer Class 5.

To ensure a seamless transition, the selected schools have been instructed to begin preparations immediately, allowing them to introduce Class 5 from January 2025. The initiative seeks to provide a consistent educational structure across the state, as previously, primary schools taught only Classes 1 to 4, with Class 5 included in secondary education.

Even with this addition, approximately 29,000 state-run and state-aided primary schools in West Bengal will still need to integrate Class 5, a process that will be implemented gradually. By doing so, the government aims to create a more uniform learning environment for students across all primary institutions in the state. This move is expected to improve accessibility to continuous primary education, reducing the need for students to transition to secondary schools solely to attend Class 5.

Educationists have praised this initiative, stating that it will help streamline early education and ensure that students can complete their foundational years within the same school environment. The government’s phased approach reflects its commitment to expanding primary education in West Bengal while addressing logistical and infrastructural needs.

Source: PTI

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