CBSE Introduces New Language Policy for Class 9 Students: Three Languages Required

The Central Board of Secondary Education (CBSE) has announced a significant policy change, mandating that all Class 9 students study three languages beginning July 1. This decision aims to promote linguistic diversity and is aligned with the objectives of the National Education Policy (NEP) 2020 and the National Curriculum Framework for School Education 2023.

According to the circular issued by the board on Friday, students must choose at least two Indian languages among the three they study. The third language can be a foreign language, but only if the first two are Indian. Alternatively, students may opt for a foreign language as an additional fourth language, providing flexibility in their linguistic education.

One of the notable aspects of this new policy is that there will be no board examination for the third language in Class 10. This decision is aimed at alleviating stress and allowing students to focus on learning rather than on high-stakes testing. Internal assessments for the third language will be conducted by individual schools, with the results reflected in the students’ final certificates.

The CBSE has also reassured parents and students that the new language requirement will not hinder any student from appearing in the Class 10 board examinations. This ensures that the introduction of the new policy will not become a barrier to students’ progress.

During this transitional phase, schools will temporarily utilize textbooks from Class 6 for the third language until new materials are developed specifically for this curriculum. The CBSE has provided guidance on 19 scheduled languages, including Assamese, Bengali, Gujarati, Kannada, and Marathi, among others, ensuring that students have access to a wide array of language options.

This initiative reflects a broader effort to enrich students’ educational experiences by fostering multilingualism, which is increasingly recognized as an asset in today’s globalized world. The CBSE’s proactive approach in updating its curriculum is expected to enhance the cultural and linguistic competencies of students across India.

Source: scroll.in