In a major step toward improving early childhood education, the Karnataka government has announced the launch of pre-primary classes in 4,056 additional government schools across the state. This expansion will begin in the academic year 2025–26 and aims to strengthen the foundation of learning for children aged 3 to 6 years.
A Big Boost for Young Learners
The new initiative will introduce Lower Kindergarten (LKG) and Upper Kindergarten (UKG) classes in selected government schools. These classes are part of the Early Childhood Care and Education (ECCE) program, which focuses on the overall development of young children through play-based learning, basic literacy, and social skills.
Until now, many government schools in Karnataka did not offer pre-primary education, making it difficult for children from low-income families to access early learning. With this expansion, thousands of children will now be able to start their education journey in a structured and supportive environment.
Why Early Education Matters
Experts say that the first six years of a child’s life are critical for brain development. Early education helps children build language skills, improve concentration, and learn how to interact with others. It also prepares them for formal schooling in higher grades.
By adding LKG and UKG classes, Karnataka is aligning with the goals of the National Education Policy (NEP) 2020, which emphasizes the importance of foundational learning.
Support for Teachers and Schools
To make this plan successful, the government will train teachers in child-friendly teaching methods. Schools will also receive support to create safe and engaging classrooms with toys, books, and learning materials.
Parents will be encouraged to participate in school activities and understand the importance of early education. This will help build a strong connection between home and school, which is vital for a child’s growth.
With this move, Karnataka is taking a big step toward making quality education available to all children, regardless of their background. The expansion of pre-primary classes will not only improve learning outcomes but also reduce dropout rates in later years.
As the program rolls out in 2025–26, thousands of young children across Karnataka will walk into classrooms filled with stories, songs, and smiles marking the beginning of a brighter future.
