In a move to reduce the burden of school bags on students, the Union Ministry has announced the introduction of ‚bagless learning days‘ for classes 6-8. This initiative aims to provide students with a break from carrying heavy bags and focus on a different approach to learning for 10 days in the academic year.
The decision to implement bagless learning days comes after discussions and consultations on the excessive weight of school bags and its impact on students. Following the guidelines set by the National Education Policy of 2020, the Ministry of Education is taking steps to address this issue and promote a more holistic approach to education.
During these bagless learning days, students will engage in activities such as skill development workshops, cultural programs, environmental monitoring, and educational trips to historical sites. The aim is to reduce the academic burden on students and boost their confidence and overall well-being.
Renowned educationist R.K. Narayan was one of the first to raise concerns about the weight of school bags in a speech to the Parliament in 1989. Subsequently, under the leadership of Prof. Yashpal, a committee was formed in 1993 to address this issue and provide recommendations. One of the key directives was to limit the weight of school bags to one-fifth of the student’s body weight, a guideline that was officially adopted by the Central Board of Secondary Education in 2009.
In conclusion, the introduction of bagless learning days is a positive step towards creating a more student-friendly and engaging learning environment. By reducing the burden of school bags and incorporating a variety of activities into the curriculum, students can experience a more holistic and enjoyable approach to education. This initiative reflects a shift towards a more balanced and well-rounded education system that prioritizes the overall well-being of students.