CBSE introducing Katha Clubs, offers write stuff

August 6, 2013, 12:00 am


CBSE students soon can pen his thoughts, his writing skills, explore the world of writers, relish new stories and contest for awards. The Central Board of Secondary Education (CBSE) has decided to introduce Katha Clubs, storytelling groups, in all its schools in a novel attempt to tap the potential of budding writers and encourage the habit of reading among students.

"Any school from the city can start Katha Clubs to find, inspire and grow talent among their children. In these clubs, schools will conduct literary sessions and select students for regional workshops and competitions," said R J Khanderao, regional chairman, CBSE.

Students will also get access to 63 katha e-books recommended by the CBSE, which has joined hands with a Delhi organization working in the field of storytelling since 1988 for the purpose.

The club would also hold online activities. Children would be able to upload their stories, poems and translations on a specially-designed website.

Students will also get to read stories by top Indian writers.

The activities would continue over a period of time. "A spot-writing competition will be held in schools, where around 400 students will be selected for semi-finals. They will be invited with teachers to writing workshops at the regional level. Then, the Katha Awards will be announced followed by the National Katha Utsav and Katha Awards ceremony in December," said Khanderao.

The writers’ workshop would give selected students a chance to hone their writing skills and win a place at the Katha Utsav.

"The National Katha Utsav will reward the students’ writing skills and showcase their works to publishers and literary agents. Participation in the events will be free of cost," Khanderao added.