Bharda New High School, one of the most prestigious educational institutions located in the center of South Bombay, has decided to end its long-standing policy of admitting only boys. The decision was made three years ago, but the implementation was delayed due to the pandemic.
The school has a rich history of producing notable cricket players for India and has been in operation since 1891. While the junior college has always been co-ed, the school was exclusively for boys.
Founded by Jalbhai Dorabji Bharda and Kaikobad Behramji Marzban in 1891, Bharda New High School in Mumbai has established itself as one of the most reputed educational institutions in the city with a strong focus on academic excellence and sports.
The decision to end the policy was taken as there were no longer any justifications or reason for keeping it a boys-only school. This move is also a significant step towards gender equality in education.
Last year, the school finally opened admissions to girls, and currently, the school has 16 girls enrolled while the junior college has 29. The school trustees stated that they expect more girls to join in the upcoming academic year. The decision has been well received by the students and staff at the school.
To ensure a smooth transition, the school is educating and informing the students on how to accommodate female pupils. Some girls have already been appointed as class monitors, and the school is gradually implementing the changes. The majority of the 16 female students currently enrolled are siblings of existing students.