Maharashtra to Teach English as a Foreign Language for Classes 11 and 12, Emphasizing Multilingual Proficiency

In a significant move, the Maharashtra government has announced that English will be taught as a foreign language in Standards 11 and 12. This change aligns with the state's ongoing efforts to enhance regional language proficiency and align educational policies with the National Education Policy (NEP) 2020.

Starting from the 2024-25 academic year, students in these grades will study English in a manner akin to other foreign languages. The shift is part of a broader strategy to emphasize the importance of multilingualism and to ensure that students develop a strong command over their native language, Marathi, along with other regional languages and Hindi.

This decision is rooted in the belief that proficiency in multiple languages enhances cognitive abilities and cultural understanding. The policy change reflects Maharashtra's commitment to the three-language formula promoted by the NEP, which advocates for the teaching of a regional language, Hindi, and English to promote linguistic diversity and national unity.

Under this new framework, English will be taught with a focus on practical communication skills, literature, and cultural context, similar to how French, German, or Spanish are taught as foreign languages. This shift is expected to help students appreciate English as an international language, distinct from the primary medium of instruction.

While English will still be a vital part of the curriculum, the emphasis will be on developing a deeper understanding of Marathi and other regional languages. This approach aims to balance global and local linguistic competencies, ensuring students are well-prepared for both domestic and international opportunities.

The decision has sparked a mixed response from educators and parents. Supporters argue that this will foster greater respect for regional languages and cultures, providing students with a more holistic education. Critics, however, worry that this might reduce the proficiency levels in English, potentially impacting students' future academic and career prospects in a globalized world.

The Maharashtra State Board of Secondary and Higher Secondary Education (MSBSHSE) will be responsible for implementing this change, ensuring that teachers are adequately trained and that the curriculum is designed to meet the new objectives. This transition will include the development of new textbooks and teaching materials tailored to the revised language learning goals.

Overall, this policy marks a significant step in reorienting the state's educational priorities, emphasizing the importance of linguistic diversity while maintaining the essential role of English in the global context. As Maharashtra navigates this transition, it will be crucial to monitor its impact on student outcomes and adjust strategies as needed to ensure that the benefits of multilingual education are fully realized​.