Maharashtra to bring bill to regulate private coaching classes, says Bhuse; Patil stresses on NEP

Mumbai, Jul 9 (PTI) The National Education Policy (NEP), recently implemented across the country, focusses on education in the mother tongue and skill-based learning, Maharashtra Higher and Technical Education Minister Chandrakant Patil said in the Assembly on Thursday. Replying to a short-duration discussion on education raised by opposition members, Patil said schools, colleges and universities have been given a structured roadmap to implement the new policy. He said skill-based education has now been made compulsory at both school and college levels. Students will also be required to gain practical knowledge and hands-on training before completing their education, the minister added. Patil said the government is signing agreements with various industries to facilitate practical training and improve students' employability. He also said that 50 globally top-ranked universities are expected to set up campuses in the proposed EduCity at Navi Mumbai, and land is being provided for the purpose. Urging educational institutions to place greater emphasis on research and innovation, Patil said the state government would provide financial incentives, on the lines of the Centre, to promote such activities. School Education Minister Dada Bhuse said a Bill to regulate private coaching classes will be introduced in the next session of the Legislature. Restrictions have already been imposed on fees charged by private schools, he said. For granting official recognition to schools, the minimum student strength has been fixed at 30 students in urban areas and 20 students in rural areas, Bhuse said. PTI MR BNM