In a move to ensure quality education and prevent the inclusion of potentially offensive content, the Central Board of Secondary Education (CBSE) has issued updated guidelines for textbook selection and use in schools. These guidelines, effective from August 12, 2024, emphasize the use of NCERT textbooks and place a strong emphasis on content responsibility.
Prioritizing NCERT and Scrutinizing Supplementary Materials:
The new guidelines prioritize the use of NCERT/SCERT textbooks, particularly for classes 1 through 8. While supplementary materials are permitted to address specific educational needs, they must strictly adhere to the National Curriculum Framework for Foundational Stage (NCF-FS) and the National Curriculum Framework for School Education (NCF-SE).
For classes 9 through 12, the use of NCERT textbooks is mandatory. In cases where NCERT or SCERT textbooks are unavailable, schools are instructed to utilize CBSE textbooks available on the Board’s official website.
Content Responsibility and Transparency:
Schools are now required to publish a comprehensive list of all prescribed textbooks for each class on their website. This list must be accompanied by a signed declaration from both the Manager and the Principal, confirming that they have thoroughly reviewed the content of the selected books and accept full responsibility for any material contained within them.
This measure aims to increase transparency and accountability, ensuring that schools are actively involved in vetting the educational materials used in their classrooms.
Addressing Offensive Content:
The guidelines explicitly state that schools must carefully scrutinize any supplementary books or materials from private publishers to ensure they do not contain content that could be deemed offensive to any social, religious, gender, or community group.
Should any objectionable content be identified in a prescribed textbook, the school will be held accountable, and the CBSE will take appropriate action.
Promoting Inclusivity and Quality Education:
These updated guidelines reflect the CBSE’s commitment to providing a high-quality and inclusive education for all students. By prioritizing NCERT textbooks, promoting careful selection of supplementary materials, and emphasizing content responsibility, the CBSE aims to create a learning environment that is both enriching and respectful of diverse perspectives.