School Bag Policy 2020 Announced; Policy to Reduce Weight of School Bags, Rote Learning Among Students, Check Details Here

The Education Ministry has announced the School Bag Policy 2020. This policy lay down guidelines for schools to reduce the weight of school bags and homework for students of class 1 to 12.

Under this new policy, schools will be required to introduce new changes both in academics and in infrastructure. As per the new guidelines, the weight of school bags should not exceed 10% of the student body weight. In addition, there should be no bags for pre-primary students.

On homework, the policy recommends no homework up to class 2, two hours per week of homework for class 3 to 5, one hour a day of homework for class 6 to 8, and two hours of homework for class 9 to 12.

Madhu Singh of Billabong High International School, Mumbai said, “There is a need to change the mind-set and perception of homework and competition. Homework should be designed considering the transforming pattern and basis of competitive examination and entrance examinations to colleges and universities.”

She added that children should not be under any kind of pressure from the homework. Instead, they should be given work that improves their reasoning, aptitude, and intelligence.

Priyanka Barara, Principal of Delhi International School stated that relying on rote learning was not a great method to prepare students. Reduction in homework will let the students manage their time in a better manner and allow them to indulge in a hobby or sports.

This policy will also require the schools to introduce changes in their infrastructure as well because students would not be able to carry as many books home.

Rashim Singh, a Principal added, “The schools need to provide lockers right from preschool to senior secondary to enable children to leave books in school and carry home only what is required. In the long run, we also see the possibility of integration of ‘revision/self-study’ as a period in the timetable so that 70% of the homework can be completed in school with the assistance of teachers.”