Kerala schools told to avoid grand reopening events as government pushes low-cost admission festival

The General Education Department Kerala is preparing for a different style of school reopening ‘Praveshanolsavam’ this academic year, with a focus on low-cost programmes, student interaction and stricter safety measures.

As part of the revised guidelines, schools have been instructed to avoid long inaugural speeches and large public processions involving students during admission festivals organised for welcoming newcomers.

Officials said schools can still organise admission festivals to welcome students, but programmes must remain simple and child-friendly. Instead of lengthy speeches by guests and officials, schools have been directed to conduct interactive sessions and presentations involving students.

The government has also prohibited rallies and parades outside school campuses involving children.

Schools have been specifically instructed to organise reopening events without unnecessary financial spending and with support from local communities and social participation.

VD Satheesan to inaugurate state-level event

V. D. Satheesan will inaugurate the state-level admission festival at Government Model Girls Higher Secondary School Pattom in Thiruvananthapuram.

The event is expected to officially mark the beginning of the new academic year in Kerala government schools.

Textbooks ready, uniform delays likely

Officials said textbooks for Class 1 students have already reached schools across the state. Distribution for some higher classes is still ongoing, with all remaining textbooks expected to reach schools by May 29 and 30.

Additional books are planned to be distributed during the first week of June.

However, school uniform distribution is likely to face delays. Authorities said financial assistance for uniforms in Upper Primary, High School and aided schools has not been fully completed yet, affecting procurement and delivery.

Strict safety checks before reopening

The Education Department has also introduced tighter school safety conditions before issuing fitness certificates to institutions.

Schools must ensure that dangerous electric poles and hanging power lines are not located near buildings. Institutions are also required to obtain a No Objection Certificate from Kerala State Electricity Board confirming that transformers near school premises do not pose risks.

Officials said schools must comply with 17 separate safety standards before reopening approval is granted. These include strengthening compound walls, removing hazardous structures and sealing burrows to prevent snake entry into campuses.

The new measures come as Kerala prepares to reopen schools amid growing focus on student safety, cost control and child-friendly learning environments.