Indian schools in Oman embrace new national education policy

Indian Schools in Oman Adopt Comprehensive National Education Policy Framework

PRAVASISAMWAD.COM

The Board of Directors of Indian Schools Oman has officially announced the implementation of India’s National Education Policy (NEP) 2020 across all Indian schools in the Sultanate of Oman, reported timesofoman.com.

This transformative step aims to enhance the quality of education and align it with global standards, offering a holistic and inclusive academic framework for students.

Restructured Academic Framework

Under the NEP, the traditional academic structure is redefined into a progressive 5+3+3+4 model, emphasizing age-appropriate learning and development stages. The key components include:

• Foundational Stage (ages 3-8): This phase introduces a three-year kindergarten program, or “Balvatika,” followed by Classes 1 and 2. It focuses on nurturing physical, intellectual, social, and emotional growth in young learners.
• Preparatory Stage (ages 8-11): Comprising Classes 3 to 5, this stage builds foundational literacy and numeracy while introducing experiential learning methods.
• Middle Stage (ages 11-14): Covering Classes 6 to 8, this phase encourages critical thinking and exploration of diverse subjects.
• Secondary Stage (ages 14-18): Encompassing Classes 9 to 12, this stage prepares students for higher education and professional pursuits through multidisciplinary and flexible curricula.

Introduction of Balvatika

A significant advancement for Indian schools in Oman is the extension of the kindergarten program from two years to three, ensuring a robust foundational education. Dr. Sivakumar Manickam, Chairman of the Board of Directors, emphasized the transformative impact of this initiative, stating, “The introduction of Balvatika underscores our dedication to nurturing young minds by fostering their holistic development from the earliest stages. This is a pivotal step towards redefining the educational experience for our children.”

Implementation Timeline

The Balvatika program will officially commence with the academic year 2025-2026, starting on April 1, 2025. Admissions for this phase will adhere to strict age criteria as of March 31, 2025:

• Balvatika: 3 years but not 4 years
• KG I: 4 years but not 5 years
• KG II: 5 years but not 6 years
• Class I: 6 years but not 7 years

Curriculum Highlights

The curriculum for Balvatika, based on the National Curriculum Framework for Foundational Stages (NCF-FS) 2022, emphasizes five core developmental areas:

1. Physical and motor development

2. Cognitive and intellectual growth

3. Language and communication skills

4. Social and emotional well-being

5. Creative expression and aesthetic appreciation

This tailored approach fosters an environment conducive to discovery, creativity, and meaningful learning experiences for children aged 3 to 8 years.

Admissions and Promotion Policy

Admissions for the academic year 2025-26 will require valid transfer certificates for interschool transfers. The promotion policy for currently enrolled students remains consistent, ensuring a seamless transition from KG I to KG II and KG II to Class I.

Commitment to Excellence

Indian Schools in Oman remain steadfast in their mission to deliver quality education that caters to the needs of the Indian diaspora. The adoption of NEP 2020 reflects their dedication to academic excellence and the holistic development of students. Parents are encouraged to stay informed through their respective schools for further updates.

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