Guidelines for Co-Location of Anganwadi Centres with Schools
The Government of India has recently launched comprehensive Guidelines for co-locating Anganwadi Centres (AWCs) with schools. This initiative aims to strengthen Early Childhood Care and Education (ECCE) by integrating pre-school education with formal schooling. It supports the vision of a developed India by enhancing care and learning for young children. The move aligns with the National Education Policy (NEP) 2020 and the ‘NIPUN Bharat’ mission to improve foundational literacy and numeracy.
Recent Initiative and Context
The Ministry of Education and the Ministry of Women & Child Development jointly introduced these guidelines. The initiative targets nearly 15 crore children and seeks to ensure their health, nutrition, and education from the earliest stages. It promotes seamless transition from Anganwadi to Grade 1, enhancing retention and learning outcomes. The plan also includes digital connectivity for schools and the use of AI tools to support teaching in Indian languages.
Integration with National Education Policy 2020
NEP 2020 recognises ECCE as the foundation of lifelong learning. It integrates three years of pre-school into the 5+3+3+4 education structure. The policy mandates delivery of ECCE via standalone AWCs, co-located AWCs, pre-primary sections in schools, and standalone pre-schools. All educators in this system are to be specially trained in ECCE curriculum and pedagogy, ensuring quality early education.
Objectives of Co-Location Guidelines
The guidelines aim to:
- Prepare children for formal schooling smoothly.
- Link Anganwadi Centres and primary schools for joyful learning.
- Enhance child retention rates at the primary level.
- Promote holistic development through care, health, and education.
- Encourage community participation and resource optimisation.
Key Components of the Guidelines
The guidelines focus on:
- Establishing norms and criteria for co-location.
- Mapping AWCs with nearby schools for effective integration.
- Creating child-friendly learning environments.
- Engaging parents and community stakeholders.
- Coordinating roles of various government departments and partners.
Implementation Challenges
States and Union Territories currently follow diverse models for Anganwadi functioning. The guidelines acknowledge these differences and operational challenges. Timely convergence between education and women & child development departments is crucial. This collaboration will strengthen ECCE and foundational learning services nationwide.
Technology and Learning Tools
The initiative promotes the use of innovative teaching-learning materials like Jaadui Pitara and e-Jaadui Pitara. These tools align with the National Curriculum Framework for the foundational stage and NEP 2020. Broadband connectivity in schools will support digital education and AI-based learning, making education more accessible and effective.
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