Kerala school study tours become costly luxury trips, violating guidelines

School study tours in Kerala are increasingly exceeding the norms set by the education department, raising concerns about their purpose and affordability. While trips should enhance learning and provide enjoyment, many are turning into luxurious outings that impose a massive financial burden on families. Teachers are also unwilling to be part of such trips.

According to education department guidelines, trips should be accessible for economically disadvantaged students. However, current practices often involve costly travel to far-off destinations like Hyderabad and Delhi, which contradicts these rules. "Currently, we are struggling to find teachers to accompany the children. Many want to go farther, and the children often say they want at least two nights. Teachers feel a constant tension in their minds until they return,” observed a teacher. Schools are now using large buses that create huge noise, and guideline that prohibits night travel is being violated.

Teachers are feeling pressured as well; one lady teacher is required to accompany 15 female students as per rule, and many worry that these trips are turning into opportunities for leisure rather than education. Reports suggest that costs for these trips often range from Rs 3,000 to Rs 5,000 per child, leading parents to scramble for funds to ensure their children do not miss out. Teachers are also concerned about trips turning into stays at resorts and taking videos.

The education department requires schools to submit details of each trip, but there is no clear standard for how much can be spent. This leaves both school authorities and parents helpless regarding financial decisions.

In 2022, the government revised its guidelines, stating that trips must be educationally relevant and limited to three days per academic year. If a trip lasts three consecutive days, an additional non-working day must be included. The Deputy Director of Education in Malappuram also emphasised that trips should be affordable and inclusive for all students, particularly those from lower-income backgrounds.

There are specific criteria for the vehicles used for these trips. They must be arranged through government-approved tour operators, and night travel is prohibited. The use of modified vehicles with loud sound systems is not allowed, and there are also restrictions on recording images or videos that may invade privacy. Despite these regulations, compliance remains an issue, with many schools failing to follow the established guidelines.