In a move aimed at making the Diwali break more enjoyable and stress-free for students, the Ahmedabad City District Education Officer (DEO) has asked schools to keep holiday assignments limited and focus on creative, activity-oriented learning. The directive applies to all government, grant-in-aid and non-grant-in-aid primary, secondary and higher secondary schools across the city.
Through a circular issued by DEO Rohit Chaudhari, school authorities have been instructed to refrain from giving students burdensome written assignments, lengthy projects, excessive worksheets and repetitive writing tasks during the festive holidays. The emphasis is on allowing children to use their vacation for relaxation, family time and activities that contribute to their overall development.
The advisory also states that schools should not prescribe tasks involving costly materials, compulsory online participation or paid digital applications, keeping in mind the different financial circumstances of students’ families.
Instead, educational institutions have been encouraged to introduce enjoyable activities that promote learning outside the classroom. These include reading books, drawing, storytelling, playing sports and participating in hands-on experiences. The DEO has also urged students to spend less time on mobile phones, social media and online games. Outdoor activities, yoga, regular exercise and reading have been recommended as healthier ways to utilise the holiday period.