Educational circles are abuzz with concern as the Sindh Textbook Board (STB) faces criticism over the delayed release of the Class XII English textbook. While the Class XI textbook was published on schedule in 2021, the much-awaited sequel for Class XII remains conspicuously absent from shelves.
Sources within the STB revealed to the Daily News that the delay is attributed to breaches of established procedures. It is alleged that the manuscript for the new textbook has been completed but remains unreleased due to the STB’s association with the caretaker government. According to reports, certain officers within the STB illicitly contracted a private organization to write the textbook, circumventing the originally appointed authors. This move has raised concerns about transparency and adherence to due process in educational material development.
The designated authors had already submitted their manuscript for internal and external reviews, as per standard protocol. However, the STB allegedly opted to bypass this procedure by involving the private organization, sparking questions about the fairness of the selection process and the motivations behind favoring a private entity.
As scrutiny mounts, stakeholders are demanding a thorough investigation into the circumstances surrounding the delayed publication and the alleged irregularities in author selection. Worries persist regarding the potential impact on educational standards and the integrity of the curriculum.
Educators, students, and the wider public await clarity and accountability from the relevant authorities regarding the timely and equitable provision of educational resources. The unfolding controversy underscores the importance of transparency and fairness in educational governance.