Kerala schools reopen: New academic year begins with enthusiasm and global standards focus
School campuses, which had been largely quiet for nearly two months after the summer holidays, have come alive again; Students flocked through the school gates with new bags, textbooks and expectations for the coming year.
Teachers and school officials at many institutions greeted young students with flowers, sweets, paper crowns and joyful activities in welcome ceremonies aimed at making their entry into school an enjoyable experience.
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According to official figures, more than 42 lakh students attended classes across the state, including more than three lakh children who attended Class 1.
In some schools, primary classrooms were visually renewed before the reopening day.
Walls adorned with colorful paintings, storybook characters and nature-inspired themes created a fun environment designed to help children feel comfortable in their new surroundings. The academic year was inaugurated at the state level at the Government Model Girls High School, Pattom here.
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Inaugurating the state-level Praveshanotsavam in school, Chief Minister VD Satheesan said that the state government will set up Centers of Excellence modeled on leading international institutions to provide education of global standards to students.
He said Kerala must equip its students to succeed in an age marked by “knowledge explosion” and technological advances.
Addressing students, teachers and parents, he said that one of the biggest challenges today is to constantly update oneself with the latest developments in the fields.
The Prime Minister, who was warmly welcomed by students and teachers at the event, called on parents and educators to identify and develop children’s talents and abilities from an early age.
He said that the government envisions creating educational institutions that can attract students from outside the country.
Satheesan also announced the opening of Scientific Outrage Centers in the name of India’s first Prime Minister, Jawaharlal Nehru, to promote scientific thinking among students.
Expressing his concerns about the growing drug menace, he called on students to take a firm stance against narcotics and stay away from substance abuse.
General Education Minister N Samsudheen, who presided over the event, said the government has ensured timely distribution of textbooks despite assuming office only two weeks ago.
He said the school education sector will be strengthened through periodic reforms and updates to ensure that students in the state remain globally competitive.
According to the minister, the new government is committed to improving the quality of public education and adapting the system to meet emerging educational challenges and international standards.
The opening day of school was an emotional day for many students going to school for the first time.
While some children hugged their parents and burst into tears as they entered the classroom, teachers welcomed them with paper crowns and colorful balloons.
Some children had bright smiles on their faces, while others took a little longer to adjust to their new surroundings.
