Tamil Nadu: Concerns over decline in students’ reading skills, questions raised on education system

Tamil Nadu: Recent data shows a steady decline in students’ reading skills. Experts believe that the school policy of passing all students by the eighth grade is weakening basic academic skills. Consequently, reading, legible handwriting, and other basic academic abilities are not adequately developed.

The report states that many students enter the ninth grade without the necessary academic skills. Subsequently, they achieve the minimum passing marks in the tenth grade, progressing to the upper secondary level, but lacking a deep understanding of the subjects. This makes studying in higher grades difficult for them.

According to experts, students are also reaching upper secondary schools with relatively weak basic reading abilities and subject understanding. This makes it difficult for them to understand mathematics, science, and other subjects. As a result, many students drop out and are unable to complete degree courses.

Expressing concern over this situation, V. Muthukumaran, coordinator of the Reading Development Movement, said that the School Education Department should take concrete steps to strengthen students’ reading skills at the primary level. He suggested that weak students should be given special training in the early grades to prevent them from lagging behind academically later in life.

He also said that when schools reopen after the summer holidays, special attention should be given to morning studies and afternoon reading training in June. He believes that regular practice can improve students’ reading skills.

Furthermore, he urged teachers to monitor this process and keep a close eye on students’ progress. He also stressed the need for better use of school libraries and increased book circulation to inculcate a reading habit among students.

Experts say that if reading skills are not addressed in the early grades, the dropout rate in higher education could increase. Addressing this problem requires both reforms to the education system and regular practice.

The entire issue has once again sparked debate on education policy and quality of learning, with calls for prioritising the need to strengthen foundational skills.