The Maharashtra government’s recent decision to end single-sex schools and make co-education mandatory marks a bold step toward creating a more inclusive and progressive education system. The government announced that all state-aided and government schools in Maharashtra will transition to co-educational institutions over time, ending the long-standing practice of having separate schools for boys and girls. The decision has sparked nationwide discussion — not only about gender inclusion but also about how early socialisation shapes equality and respect between genders.

I’m writing about this move because it reflects a larger social transformation that goes beyond the classroom. Co-education is not just an administrative reform — it’s a mindset shift. It challenges deep-rooted ideas about gender roles and helps build mutual respect from a young age. In a country like India, where gender inequality still exists in subtle and visible ways, learning together can be the first step towards living together as equals. This move by Maharashtra could inspire other states to rethink how education can promote not just literacy but also social harmony.

Maharashtra’s new co-education policy

According to the Government Resolution (GR) issued by the Maharashtra School Education Department, the state has decided that all existing single-sex schools will be gradually converted into co-educational institutions. This policy comes as part of the government’s long-term vision to ensure equal access to education for both boys and girls, particularly in rural areas where the number of girls’ schools is limited.

Education Minister Deepak Kesarkar explained that the move is aimed at providing equal opportunities and facilities for all students, irrespective of gender. The government believes that maintaining separate schools not only leads to resource duplication but also creates unnecessary barriers between male and female students.

As of now, Maharashtra has over 1,300 single-sex schools, most of them in rural and semi-urban regions. These schools will be converted in phases, ensuring infrastructure, teacher training, and curriculum are adapted for mixed classrooms.

Why this decision matters

1. Breaking gender barriers early

The idea of separating boys and girls during schooling often reinforces stereotypes rather than breaking them. Co-education, on the other hand, helps young people understand gender equality in everyday life. When boys and girls study together, they learn teamwork, empathy, and respect for one another from a young age — values that translate into adulthood.

2. Better use of infrastructure and resources

Running separate schools for boys and girls in the same area often leads to inefficiencies. Some schools remain underutilised, while others face overcrowding. Converting them into co-educational setups allows for better sharing of resources, from classrooms to teachers, and improves the overall learning environment.

3. Encouraging girls’ education

In many rural parts of Maharashtra, parents are hesitant to send girls to distant schools meant exclusively for them. Co-educational schools closer to home can increase female enrolment, especially for secondary education. Studies have shown that convenience and safety are key factors that influence whether girls continue their education after puberty.

4. Improving social skills and reducing gender bias

Education isn’t just about academics — it’s also about developing emotional intelligence and communication skills. Co-ed schools create spaces where students learn to interact naturally with the opposite gender, breaking down cultural barriers and reducing misconceptions. This helps build a generation that values equality rather than viewing gender differences as divides.

5. Global education practices support co-education

Across most developed nations, co-education is the norm. Countries like Finland, Japan, and Canada — known for their progressive education systems — emphasise inclusive learning spaces. Maharashtra’s decision brings the state closer to these global standards, aligning education with the realities of modern workplaces and communities, where men and women collaborate as equals.

Addressing concerns and challenges

While the decision has been widely praised, it also comes with practical challenges. Some parents and educators, especially in conservative or rural areas, have expressed discomfort about mixed classrooms, citing cultural concerns. There are also logistical issues — such as ensuring adequate facilities like separate toilets and hygiene amenities for girls.

The government has acknowledged these challenges and plans to implement the policy in phases. Training programmes for teachers and awareness campaigns for parents will be rolled out to make the transition smoother. Moreover, the administration is focusing on gender-sensitisation workshops to ensure that schools remain safe and inclusive for all students.

Education experts have suggested that the success of this initiative will depend on how sensitively and systematically it is implemented. Infrastructure upgrades, teacher preparedness, and counselling systems must be strengthened to support the change.