Bhubaneswar: The National Council of Educational Research and Training (NCERT), in collaboration with the Central University of Odisha, has developed two remarkable books: the “Kuwi Primer” and “Desia Primer”. These books are specifically tailored for children who speak the Kuwi and Desia tribal languages in the undivided Koraput district of Odisha. This new initiative not only aims to provide educational resources but also embraces and celebrates the linguistic diversity of the region.
The two primers aim to establish a solid educational foundation for these children while also supporting and nourishing the cultural and linguistic heritage and identity of the tribal community in Odisha.
The Kuwi and Desia books were launched by Union Education and Skill Development & Entrepreneurship Minister Dharmendra Pradhan, and Union Minister for Finance & Corporate Affairs Nirmala Sitharamaat at Bhubaneswar.
The event also witnessed the release of a special cover on behalf of the Department of Posts, Ministry of Communications, Government of India. This signifies a collaborative effort between the Central University of Odisha, Koraput, the Department of Posts, and NCERT.
During his speech at the launch event, Dharmendra Pradhan emphasized the importance of incorporating local customs and traditions into the education system in Odisha. He highlighted that Odisha has a diverse population consisting of more than 62 tribes, which make up 23% of the total population. To enhance students’ speaking skills, improve learning outcomes, and promote cognitive development, Pradhan stressed the necessity of utilizing visual aids, compelling stories, and culturally relevant songs in the teaching process.
Speaking at the event, Nirmala Sitharaman emphasized the significance of the National Education Policy 2020, highlighting it as a highly progressive and inclusive policy. She emphasized that the development of this policy emerged through extensive collaboration and consultation, where individuals from various backgrounds contributed their expertise. Sitharaman underlined the flexibility of the NEP, highlighting that it is not a policy imposed by the central government on all states; rather, it serves as a comprehensive framework that allows each state to adapt it according to its specific needs and requirements.
She further stated that utilizing one’s native language for learning, speaking, and thinking results in a clarity of thought that can be beneficial in the future. That is precisely why learning in the mother tongue holds significant importance. The introduction of primers in local languages and dialects is a progressive step that aligns with the government’s vision of ‘Ek Bharat Shrestha Bharat’, she added.
The Ministers attended a series of events further.
