The #1 rule of debating is to understand your opponent’s viewpoint so you can refute it.
Many yeshivas today clearly have secular studies tzu yoitzei zayn, where they are only doing it mitaam hagezeira but clearly don’t feel it’s important. This is just another step in that direction.
I disagree, but I understand their viewpoint. The kids will suffer but they suffered in Europe too and the gedoilim still felt it important.
I believe the Lubavitch yeshiva Oholei Torah is run like this as well.