Three-language formula burdens public school students

Source: The post Three-language formula burdens public school students has been created, based on the article “The student and the three language debate” published in “The Hindu” on 3rd March 2025.

UPSC Syllabus Topic: GS Paper2-Polity

Context: The article argues that making three languages compulsory in schools burdens public school students without clear benefits. It suggests focusing on improving teaching quality and English proficiency instead, and offering Hindi as an optional third language from middle school.

For detailed information on Three-Language Formula read this article here

Who are the most affected by the three-language formula?

1. Public school students in Tamil Nadu are the most affected by the three-language formula. They make up about 55% of school enrolments in the state. Unlike private school students, they cannot afford extra coaching or tuition.
2. Many struggle with basic literacy, as shown by the ASER Survey 2024, which found that 88% of Class 3 students in Tamil Nadu lack basic literacy skills.
3. Adding a third language may worsen their burden instead of helping them compete with more privileged students.

Is the NEP’s hypothesis on language learning valid?

1. The NEP claims that learning three languages improves cognitive ability, job mobility, and national integration.
2. However, advancing technology, like AI, reduces the need for multiple language proficiency for knowledge acquisition.
3. Research shows a strong foundation in the mother tongue is better than learning many languages.
4. Focusing on quality teaching and English proficiency would benefit public school students more than adding a third language.

What are the challenges in implementing the three-language formula?

1. Burden on Public School Students: Public school students, who form 55% of enrolment in Tamil Nadu, cannot afford extra coaching like private school students.
2. Funding Constraints and Teacher Availability: About 80%-90% of Tamil Nadu’s education budget is spent on teacher salaries, leaving limited funds for infrastructure. This financial strain makes it difficult to hire competent third-language teachers and improve facilities needed for effective language education.
3. Ineffective Language Learning: Research suggests a strong foundation in the mother tongue is more beneficial than learning multiple languages.

For detailed information on The Three-Language Formula and Its Challenges read this article here

What should be done?

1. Improve Teaching Quality and Learning Outcomes: Focus on enhancing teaching standards instead of adding a third language, ensuring students grasp core subjects effectively.
2. Develop Critical Skills: Use limited school time to build curiosity, critical thinking, and creativity, which are vital for the 21st century.
3. Offer Hindi as an Option: Introduce Hindi as an optional third language in middle school, based on demand and national trends.
4. Avoid Rigid Political Stances: Maintain a balanced approach to language education to ensure students’ national competitiveness.

Question for practice:

Discuss the challenges faced by public school students in Tamil Nadu due to the implementation of the three-language formula.