Alappuzha: General Education Minister V Sivankutty has warned government, aided and unaided schools in Kerala of derecognition in the event of non-compliance with reservation rules in Plus One admissions. He also said that recognition of schools that conduct entrance exams for class 1 admissions would also be revoked.

PTA funds 
Referring to the funds collected by the PTAs (Parent Teacher Associations) during admissions, the minister said that small amounts could be accepted. “Some schools charge ₹5,000 – ₹10,000 from each student as PTA funds. This cannot be accepted, and we will take action against them. No child will be denied admission due to the inability to pay the fee. Action will be taken within a week when a complaint is received in this regard,” he said. 

School hours
Sivankutty also revealed that the government has received the draft report on extending school hours prepared by an experts’ panel based on a High Court directive. The report points out that five working days a week is less than the international academic standards. “We will not implement any changes in the school hours in the upcoming academic year,” he said.

Differently-abled students
The minister said that all school buildings to be built with funds from KIIFB (Kerala Infrastructure Investment Fund Board) in the future will be differently abled-friendly and have lifts. Schools have also been directed to ensure a congenial environment for differently abled students.

Fitness of buildings
Stern instructions have been given to schools to ensure the fitness of buildings. No school should reopen without receiving the fitness certificate for its buildings. “Schools must complete their maintenance works by May 27,” said the minister. Schools functioning in rented buildings should also obtain fitness certificates from local bodies, he added. 

Addictive substances
Police and excise have been instructed to inspect shops near schools for banned substances and addictive items to ensure that the sale of such materials does not take place. Schools should also install display boards to create awareness among students about these items. 

Other directives
- The midday meal must be served in schools from the reopening day.
- Water sources and tanks should be germ-free, and water samples should be tested in a laboratory.
- A health card is mandatory for workers in the school kitchen.
- Schools have been directed to include arts, sports and social commitment subjects in the timetable.
School buses and other vehicles transporting students should adhere to the Motor Vehicles Department (MVD) guidelines regarding carrying capacity and fitness.
- All schools should convene a meeting of their PTAs before May 15 to discuss the preparations for the reopening.