Shimla: In a significant step towards strengthening the quality of school education, the foundational learning levels of Class IV students in Himachal Pradesh have been scientifically assessed. The study was conducted by National Council of Educational Research and Training on April 24 and 25 under the Foundational Learning Study (FLS-2026).
Carried out under the aegis of Samagra Shiksha, the study covered 204 selected government, aided, and private schools across the state on a sample basis. The initiative aims to evaluate the actual learning status of children in early grades.
The primary objective of the FLS was to assess Foundational Literacy and Numeracy (FLN) competencies developed by students by the end of Class III. In Himachal Pradesh, the assessment focused on students currently studying in Class IV who have completed Class III. A maximum of 12 students from each selected school participated in the study.
The evaluation included a detailed assessment of basic literacy and numeracy skills. Language components covered oral expression, listening comprehension, phonemic awareness, reading of letters, words and unfamiliar text, reading comprehension, oral reading fluency, and writing skills. Mathematics assessment included number recognition, understanding numerical differences, basic operations (addition, subtraction, multiplication, division), word problems, measurement, fractions, patterns, and data interpretation.
Transparent, Tech-Based Process Adopted
The study in Himachal Pradesh was coordinated by State Council of Educational Research and Training Himachal Pradesh. To ensure transparency, timeliness, and efficiency, the assessment was conducted through a tablet-based platform. Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) were strictly followed at all levels to maintain data quality and reliability.
Observers appointed by NCERT monitored the process by visiting various schools. Observer Meenakshi Rai, along with the NIPUN FLN Coordinator and State Assessment Coordinator, reviewed the assessment process at schools in Lalpani and Totu areas of Shimla to ensure compliance with prescribed norms.
Findings to Guide Policy Decisions
The data collected through the study will be analysed by the Vidya Samiksha Kendra under Samagra Shiksha. The findings will support evidence-based policy decisions in the education sector and help identify areas where students require additional support and guidance.
Samagra Shiksha Director Rajesh Sharma stated that the study has been conducted on a sample basis in selected schools across the state. He added that if any learning gaps are identified, necessary and effective measures will be taken to address them and ensure strong foundational education for children.
