Thiruvananthapuram: The Khader Committee has recommended a significant change in school hours in Kerala, proposing that classes run from 8 a.m. to 1 p.m. This suggestion also includes reducing the number of children in pre-schools to 25 and in classes 1 to 12 to 35.

During a Cabinet meeting on Wednesday, the second part of the Khader Committee report, which contains these recommendations, was approved. The decision was reached through a consensus after thorough discussion. The committee observed that central schools and those following the national syllabus often start their day between 7:30 a.m. and 8:30 a.m. It emphasised the need to adjust Kerala's school timings to promote the holistic development of children, while allowing for local adjustments where necessary. Additionally, the committee suggested using the time between 2 p.m. and 4 p.m. for in-depth study of certain subjects.

The proposed time change is expected to foster the mental, emotional, physical, and creative growth of students. The committee stressed that any adjustments should consider the age and physical and mental characteristics of the children.

School hours have been a topic of debate since the 1990s, frequently discussed at educational congresses and similar forums. A committee formed to revise the Kerala Education Code (KER) also put forth similar recommendations. In 2007, the Khader Committee, chaired by former Chief Secretary C.P. Nair, suggested that students in classes 1 to 10 should allocate time for library visits, laboratory work, seminars, projects, and creative as well as sports activities.