Bhubaneswar, February 21: Congress MLA Sofia Firdaus has expressed serious concerns regarding the state’s education system, welfare schemes, and the implications of artificial intelligence (AI). During a session in the assembly, she highlighted that many schools in Odisha are conducting multiple classes in a single room.
She reported that there are 1,898 schools in the state where more than one class is being taught in the same space. Firdaus described this situation as shocking, indicating a clear sign of the education system’s deterioration and a violation of children’s right to education.
The Congress MLA emphasized that teaching first, second, and fifth-grade students together creates a chaotic environment akin to a ‘fish market.’ In such conditions, teachers cannot teach effectively, nor can students comprehend the lessons properly. Primary schools lay the foundation for children’s futures, and if they do not receive proper basic education, how can future generations become capable and self-reliant?
Firdaus urged the state government to release emergency funds for these schools within the current budget year to facilitate the construction of additional classrooms, ensuring a better learning environment for children. She noted that this issue did not arise overnight but is the result of long-standing neglect, with no substantial initiatives taken in the past 20 months.
Responding to the Supreme Court‘s comments on welfare schemes and ‘freebies,’ she acknowledged the court’s perspective as honorable. She stated that it is indeed correct for governments to work towards making people self-reliant. Citing Odisha’s Subhadra scheme, she suggested that providing a lump sum of 50,000 rupees instead of smaller installments of 5,000 rupees, along with proper guidance for its use, could empower women more effectively.
Firdaus further pointed out that the primary shortcoming of welfare schemes is the lack of proper monitoring and guidance. If these schemes are implemented correctly, beneficiaries are given the right direction, and they are economically empowered, they can bring about positive changes at the grassroots level.
On the topic of AI and technological development, she noted that the foundation of India’s information technology and computer revolution was laid by former Prime Minister Rajiv Gandhi. His efforts paved the way for technological changes that are still evident today.
She remarked that AI has both advantages and disadvantages, making it essential to implement it with the right direction, policies, and appropriate controls. Merely holding conferences or summits does not bring about change; applying the outcomes on the ground and preventing misuse is equally vital. AI is a broad subject that requires a deep understanding and a robust regulatory framework.
My name is Himanshu Tiwari. I am an experienced content writer with several years of expertise in the field. Currently, I contribute to Daily Kiran, creating engaging and informative content across a variety of categories including TECHNOLOGY, health, travel, education, and automobiles. My goal is to deliver accurate, insightful, and captivating information through my words to help readers stay informed and empowered.
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