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Mumbai Marathi Schools Under Threat: Activists Plan Protest Over Infrastructure Issues

Mumbai Marathi Schools Under Threat: Activists Plan Protest Over Infrastructure Issues

Education activists and Marathi language supporters have raised fresh concerns over the condition and future of Marathi-medium school infrastructure in Mumbai. On Sunday, members of Marathi Abhyas Kendra, a cultural and language group, held a public session in Dadar to highlight what they allege is the steady demolition or closure of Marathi school buildings across the city. According to the group, several schools that once served local communities are either being shut down or repurposed, leaving Marathi-medium students with fewer options.

I am writing about this issue because it touches a sensitive point for Mumbai’s identity and its education system. Marathi schools are not just places of learning; they represent language, culture, and access to education for thousands of families. Over the years, I have seen repeated discussions around falling enrolment and infrastructure neglect, but very little sustained action on the ground. When education activists come together and announce a protest, it signals deeper frustration. This is not just about buildings being removed; it is about what replaces them and whether Marathi-medium education still has institutional support in India’s financial capital. For parents, teachers, and policymakers, this debate deserves serious attention before irreversible decisions are made.

What Happened at the Dadar Session

The session organised by Marathi Abhyas Kendra in Dadar brought together activists, educators, and concerned citizens. Speakers pointed out instances where Marathi school premises were allegedly razed or allowed to deteriorate without proper plans for rebuilding or relocation.

They argued that these actions directly affect students from middle- and lower-income families who rely on affordable Marathi-medium education.

Allegations Around School Demolitions

According to the activists, several Marathi schools run by civic authorities have faced:

  • Poor maintenance of existing buildings
  • Closure due to low enrolment without revival plans
  • Demolition linked to redevelopment projects
  • Temporary relocation that later becomes permanent shutdown

The group claims that once a school building is demolished, reopening it becomes nearly impossible.

Call for Protest on December 18

Following the Dadar meeting, Marathi Abhyas Kendra announced a protest scheduled for Thursday, December 18. The protest will take place outside the Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation headquarters, after which participants plan to march to Azad Maidan.

The organisers say this demonstration is meant to pressure civic authorities to stop further damage to Marathi school infrastructure and to start meaningful dialogue.

Why Marathi Schools Matter in Mumbai

Marathi-medium schools play a crucial role in preserving the city’s linguistic and cultural roots. They also provide accessible education for families who may not afford private English-medium schools.

Experts often point out that strong mother-tongue education in early years improves learning outcomes and confidence among students.

What Activists Are Demanding

The key demands raised by education activists include:

  • Immediate halt to demolition of Marathi school buildings
  • Transparent policy on redevelopment affecting schools
  • Investment in modernising existing Marathi schools
  • Clear roadmap to increase enrolment and trust

They argue that without these steps, Marathi-medium education in Mumbai will continue to weaken.

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How Online Education Is Helping Maharashtra Students Improve Math and English Skills

How Online Education Is Helping Maharashtra Students Improve Math and English Skills

Digital learning has quietly changed the way many students across Maharashtra approach difficult subjects like Mathematics and English. For one student who once struggled with basic concepts, online learning tools became a turning point. With access to interactive lessons, recorded explanations, and regular practice tests, the student was able to learn at a comfortable pace. Over time, weak areas in maths calculations and English comprehension improved, leading to better confidence and noticeable academic progress.

I am writing about this topic because stories like these reflect a larger shift happening in education. Many students still believe that struggling in subjects means they are not capable, which is not true. The right learning support can make a big difference. Digital learning is no longer just an option for urban or elite students, it is becoming a practical solution for learners from different backgrounds who need personalised attention and flexible study methods.

The Challenge Many Students Face

Subjects like Mathematics and English often create fear among students. Maths demands clarity of concepts and constant practice, while English requires reading, listening, and confidence in expression. In traditional classrooms, students who fall behind may hesitate to ask questions, leading to long-term gaps in learning. This is exactly where digital learning tools have started to help bridge the gap.

How Digital Learning Changed the Learning Process

Digital platforms allow students to revisit lessons as many times as needed. Instead of moving at the pace of the classroom, the Maharashtra student could pause videos, revise concepts, and practise questions repeatedly.

Some key benefits included:

  • Step-by-step explanations for maths problems
  • Grammar and vocabulary practice through interactive exercises
  • Instant feedback on tests and quizzes
  • Learning without fear of judgement

This personalised approach helped build understanding and confidence.

Improvement in Mathematics Skills

For maths, digital learning provided structured practice. Concepts like fractions, algebra, and problem-solving became easier through visual explanations and guided practice sessions. Regular mock tests helped the student identify mistakes early and correct them before exams.

Over time, maths shifted from being a fear subject to one of the student’s stronger areas.

Growth in English Language Skills

English improvement came through consistent exposure. Listening to recorded lessons improved pronunciation, while reading-based exercises strengthened comprehension. Writing tasks with sample answers helped the student understand sentence structure and grammar usage.

Slowly, the student became more confident in reading passages and answering questions, both in exams and daily classroom activities.

Role of Self-Paced Learning

One of the biggest advantages of digital education is self-paced learning. The student could study early in the morning or late in the evening, depending on comfort. This flexibility reduced pressure and allowed learning to happen naturally, without stress.

From my point of view, this freedom is especially helpful for students who need more time to understand concepts.

Support from Teachers and Parents

Digital learning worked best when supported by guidance. Teachers helped track progress through performance reports, while parents encouraged regular study habits at home. This combined effort ensured the student stayed consistent and motivated.

Why This Matters for Other Students

This story is not unique. Many students across Maharashtra and other states are benefiting in similar ways. Digital learning does not replace teachers, but it strengthens learning by offering extra support where needed.

Students who struggle should see this as proof that improvement is possible with the right tools.

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