The Union Cabinet has recently given the green light for the implementation of the World Bank-aided Strengthening Teaching-Learning and Results for States (STARS) project. The cost of this substantial project stands at Rs. 5,718 crore, with the World Bank contributing approximately Rs. 3,700 crore.
Overview of the STARS Project
The STARS project will be rolled out as a fresh Centrally Sponsored Scheme under the remit of the Department of School Education and Literacy, in the Ministry of Education (MoE). The objectives of the project align closely with those highlighted in the National Education Policy (NEP) 2020. In particular, these objectives focus on improving learning quality based outcomes.
Aim and Focus
At its core, the STARS project aims to reinforce the state-led school education system, thereby largely addressing the educational requirements of girls and students belonging to marginalized communities. The lion’s share of attention will be given to several initiatives. These include PM e-Vidya, Foundational Literacy and Numeracy Mission, and the National Curricular and Pedagogical Framework for Early Childhood Care and Education, all of which are components of the Atmanirbhar Bharat Abhiyan.
Key Features of the Project
The main features of the STARS project encapsulate various areas, such as access, retention, right to education entitlements, quality interventions, and teacher education and training. Additionally, the project also emphasizes gender equity, inclusive education, and upgrading the learning environment.
Project’s Impact on PISA Participation
The Programme for International Student Assessment (PISA), initiated by the Organisation for Economic Co-operation and Development (OECD) in 2000, will also receive funding from this project for India’s participation in its 2022 cycle. PISA, conducted triennially, tests 15-year-old students on their learning levels in reading, mathematics, and science.
Major Components: National Level
The project aims to fortify the Ministry of Education’s national data systems, allowing for the reliable collection of data on student retention, transition, and completion rates. It will also help in strengthening learning assessment systems. One notable inclusion is the establishment of PARAKH (Performance Assessment, Review, and Analysis of Knowledge for Holistic Development), that will standardize the operations of around 60 examination boards across the country.
Contingency Emergency Response Component (CERC)
A significant aspect of the project, CERC will equip the government to respond effectively to situations that threaten learning, such as school closures or infrastructure damage. It will also utilize technology to enable remote learning.
Major Components: State Level
At the state level, the project intends to enhance education outcomes and devise better strategies for school-to-work transitions, which in turn will lead to improved labour market outcomes in six states: Himachal Pradesh, Rajasthan, Maharashtra, Madhya Pradesh, Kerala, and Odisha.
Way Forward
The STARS programme embodies the long-standing partnership between India and the World Bank, focusing on the fortification of public school education and supporting India’s goal of providing ‘education for all’. Furthermore, it will pave the way for a renewed focus on addressing the ‘learning outcome’ challenge and aiding students in preparing better for future job markets through various reform initiatives.