Cracking the Code: Addressing the Coaching Conundrum

The Ministry of Education has launched an initiative aimed at scrutinizing the growing dependence on coaching centers and the emergence of 'dummy schools' in India. This move follows widespread complaints regarding the fairness and transparency of entrance examinations.

Chaired by Higher Education Secretary Vineet Joshi, the newly formed nine-member panel will explore the gaps within the existing education system, particularly focusing on areas such as critical thinking and logical reasoning, often overshadowed by rote learning practices.

As dummy schools facilitate a focus on coaching for competitive exams, the panel's mandate includes examining these schools' role and evaluating the overall effectiveness of entrance tests. The initiative aims to address urgent concerns around student suicides, inadequate facilities, and controversial teaching methods in coaching centers.

(With inputs from agencies.)