Bengaluru, Sept 30: Private school managements have demanded the resignation of Primary and Secondary Education Minister N. Mahesh after he likened students in private schools to parrots that just repeat what’s taught in class and teachers to Christian nuns who look serious.
He was speaking at an event organised by Karnataka State Commission for Protection of Child Rights to honour select alumni of government schools who have contributed to their schools under old-students' associations on Saturday.
He said: “Private school teachers are like Christian nuns, who look serious and stand straight. Their strict enforcement of discipline kills creativity.”
Later, he clarified that he didn't mean to offend nuns or teachers, and that he only mentioned it in the context of how strict they were.
He reiterated that students in private schools are like parrots reproducing what is taught to them, while those in government schools are like eagles who fight to make their voice heard. "They even argue with teachers if needed," he said.
He then went on to question the role of private schools in society, and claimed that they only contribute to the betterment of Switzerland, America, and Russia. “Government school students, on the other hand, contribute to society by becoming police officials and taking up other jobs in our country,” Mr Mahesh said.
He commended government school students for their behaviour, and said they were hundred times more intelligent than those in private schools.
Private school managements have demanded his resignation. D. Shashi Kumar, general secretary of the Associated Management of Primary and Secondary Schools in Karnataka, said they condemn the Minister’s statement.
“How can the Education Minister make a statement showing private schools in poor light? His understanding of education is very poor and we urge the Chief Minister to change his portfolio as he is unfit to be the Education Minister,” said Mr Kumar.
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