‘Nali-Kali’ under scanner: Govt report flags failure of flagship learning programme

Kannada Development Authority submits critical report to Education Minister Madhu Bangarappa, highlights serious gaps in training, infrastructure and learning outcomes

The much-hyped ‘Nali-Kali’ learning programme in Karnataka’s government schools has come under sharp criticism, with a detailed report submitted to Education Minister Madhu Bangarappa flagging serious shortcomings in its implementation and outcomes.

The Kannada Development Authority, which prepared the report, has expressed strong dissatisfaction, stating that the programme has failed to achieve its primary objectives of improving language skills, promoting activity-based learning and creating a student-centric education system.

The Nali-Kali model was first introduced as a pilot project in 1995-96 at Heggadadevana Kote in Mysuru district. Based on its early success, the initiative was expanded across all government Kannada-medium schools in the State during the 2010–11 academic year. The core aim was to enhance foundational learning, especially language development, through interactive and flexible teaching methods.

However, the report notes that the scheme has gradually lost its effectiveness. Key reasons cited include inadequate teacher training, difficulties in managing multi-grade classrooms, lack of individual attention due to high student numbers, and irregular supply of essential learning materials.

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The authority also pointed out that teachers and parents have limited awareness of the programme’s methodology, while basic infrastructure in government schools remains insufficient. Problems in assessment systems and difficulties faced by students in adapting to conventional learning methods after Class 3 have further weakened the programme’s impact.

Parents, too, have voiced strong concerns. Many have criticised the practice of assigning a single teacher to handle three classes, calling it impractical and harmful to quality education. The report adds that the expected improvement in Kannada language proficiency has not been achieved, particularly at the primary level.

Due to these shortcomings, parental trust in government schools has declined, pushing many families to prefer private institutions. The Kannada Development Authority has urged the State government to urgently review, restructure and strengthen the Nali-Kali programme to restore confidence and improve learning outcomes.