Tomorrow marks the commencement of the academic year for schools in Kerala
Kochi is set to host the grand inauguration of Praveshanotsavam 2024, marking the beginning of the academic journey for approximately 2.5 lakh students in Ernakulam district. Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan will inaugurate the event at the Government Higher Secondary School in Elamakkara, Kochi. Praveshanotsavam symbolizes the state’s warm welcome to young learners embarking on a new academic year.
This year, the enrollment figures stand at 2,44,646 for Class I, with a total student count of 12,09,882 in high schools and 3,83,515 in Plus Two programs. Additionally, vocational higher secondary schools in the state accommodate 28,113 students.
Education Minister V Sivankutty, speaking at a press conference held at the Government Higher Secondary School, Elamakkara, Kochi, shared details regarding student enrollment across different sectors. The government sector accounts for 11,19,380 students, aided sector for 20,30,091, and unaided sector for 2,99,082 students.
The admission process for Higher Secondary and Vocational Higher Secondary courses has commenced, with classes scheduled to start on June 24. However, finalized enrollment data for classes I to X is expected by the second week of June, while data for higher secondary students will be available by the end of June.
The minister also outlined various initiatives aimed at enhancing the quality of education. Notably, vacation teachers’ training programs focused on curriculum reform, incorporating revised textbooks and familiarizing teachers with the Kerala Curriculum Framework 2023. Teachers were also trained to identify and address various challenges faced by students, including awareness sessions on laws like POCSO and substance abuse.
In a pioneering move, around 80,000 high school and higher secondary school teachers received practical training on artificial intelligence, facilitated by KITE. This initiative aims to equip educators with contemporary skills and leverage technology for enhanced teaching-learning experiences.
Regarding the functioning of Parent Teacher Committees (PTAs), revised guidelines have been issued to ensure the active participation of parents in school governance. PTAs are mandated to collect membership fees during admission, with exemptions for students from disadvantaged backgrounds.
Efforts to streamline smart class implementation were emphasized, with a high-level committee tasked with assessing the effectiveness of smart classrooms across the state. Additionally, plans for district-level adalats aim to resolve pending issues within the education department, ensuring efficient administrative processes.
Addressing concerns about unapproved educational institutions and exorbitant fees charged by coaching institutes, the state government is contemplating policy measures to regulate these sectors. Committees have been established to monitor fee structures and address parental grievances effectively.
To elevate academic standards, discussions have been held regarding evaluation reforms and the implementation of a minimum marks system. Special programs cater to the educational needs of children in tribal, coastal, and plantation areas, ensuring equitable access to quality education.
The Focus School initiative aims to support schools with low student enrollment, providing them with necessary resources and attention to improve their educational outcomes. These comprehensive efforts underscore the state’s commitment to fostering excellence in education and nurturing the academic growth of its students.