The pandemic-induced shift to online learning has sparked an unexpected trend across India: a steady rise in parents choosing to educate their children at home rather than returning to conventional schools. In Bihar, where education infrastructure has long faced challenges, several families are now exploring home-schooling as a viable alternative.
Education experts note that the number of enquiries for home-schooling resources and legal compliance has increased by nearly 40% since 2020. Parents cite personalised attention, flexible schedules, and concerns about classroom safety as primary motivations. In Patna and Muzaffarpur, small groups of parents have formed co-operative learning circles, pooling resources to hire tutors for specific subjects.
However, the trend presents unique challenges. The National Institute of Open Schooling (NIOS), which provides certification for home-schooled students, has seen applications double in the past two years. Yet concerns remain about socialisation, access to laboratories, and sports facilities that traditional schools offer.
Educational administrators emphasise that home-schooling requires significant parental commitment and resources. While it offers flexibility, experts recommend that parents carefully evaluate their capacity to provide comprehensive education, particularly for competitive examinations like NEET and JEE, which remain crucial for Bihar's aspiring students seeking quality higher education and career opportunities.