‘Prep for competitive exams in Class X like Bihar, UP kids do’

Panaji: Chief minister Pramod Sawant on Saturday emphasised the need for the promotion of a “competitive exam culture” at higher secondary school and college levels in Goa.
Addressing school students virtually during a career guidance programme under the Swayampurna Goa initiative, Sawant said, “In states like Rajasthan, Uttar Pradesh, and Bihar, students begin preparing for competitive exams soon after clearing the SSC level.”
Sawant added, “They prepare for such exams for five consecutive years.That culture is needed in our higher secondary schools and colleges. This era is of innovation and research. Hence, competitive exams are important.”
Sawant said that every school should set the target of 100% results in SSC exams to be held in the March-April period next year.
“Currently, 92% of the total students pass the exams. When teachers and students work together, the 100% target will be achievable,” he further said.
The CM urged students not to consider govt’s Industrial Training Institutes (ITIs) any less advantageous than other institutions. He said that many ITI students have become successful entrepreneurs.
“If Kineco, a company based at Pilerne Industrial Estate, can manufacture and supply components for the Chandrayaan mission, why can’t Goan students be a part of space missions and why can’t they go to space?” Sawant said. “Goan students can learn through research and ITIs. We are ready to help them.”
Sawant said that govt will introduce hospitality and housekeeping courses in all ITIs from July 15.
He said that the duration of the course will be six months and added that the students will also get stipends when they intern in the hotel industry.