The Kerala Education Department has initiated an investigation into the rising number of private schools operating illegally in the state. General Education Minister V. Sivankutty announced this development on Wednesday, emphasizing the need to uphold educational standards and compliance with the Kerala Education Rules.
The Director of Public Instruction has been tasked with leading this investigation across all districts, assisted by junior education officials. “Stringent action will be taken against such schools,” Sivankutty stated, highlighting the government’s commitment to maintaining quality education.
During a press conference, the minister expressed concerns over aided schools that continue to charge exorbitant fees in the form of donations or building funds. He noted, “We need to put an end to this,” stressing that the Kerala government heavily invests in public education and infrastructure.
Sivankutty pointed out alarming practices in some private institutions, where anyone can rent a property, display a sign, and establish a school without adhering to educational standards. He explained, “They appoint unqualified teachers, create their own syllabus, set exam dates, and award marks independently,” all while imposing multiple fees on parents.
These schools operate outside regulatory oversight, failing to provide a structured education system for students. “For children in pre-primary classes, education goes beyond textbooks; it encompasses personality development through peer interaction, games, and gatherings. These schools lack facilities to support such activities,” he added.
Currently, the government does not have precise data on the number of unregulated schools in Kerala, but this investigation aims to reveal the extent of the issue.
In conjunction with this announcement, Sivankutty launched the E-Cube Hindi Language Lab to enhance communicative Hindi skills for upper primary students, building on the previous introduction of the E-Cube English Language Lab. The government is also promoting the learning of at least two additional languages alongside the mother tongue within its curriculum, emphasizing the integration of Information and Communication Technology (ICT) in public education.
Additionally, Sivankutty announced the upcoming state school festival scheduled to take place in Thiruvananthapuram from January 4 to 10, featuring participation from over 15,000 students competing in more than 249 events.
