Safeguarding Students: New Complaint System for Schools Announced

Education Minister Announces New Complaint Registration System for Schools

On February 10, General Education Minister V. Sivankutty announced that the government would set up a system for parents and the public to register complaints against schools in the state. Managed by the Director of General Education (DGE), the system will address schools that do not follow central and state regulations. The minister also mentioned that the Global Public School in Thiruvaniyoor, Ernakulam, had failed to provide the required No Objection Certificate (NOC), despite being instructed to do so. He explained that Mihir Ahammed, a Class IX student, tragically took his life on January 15 after allegedly suffering physical and mental abuse from fellow students.

Sivankutty clarified that while Cambridge International, CBSE, and ICSE schools are not directly controlled by the state education department, they must still obtain an NOC. Despite a directive, the Global Public School has not provided the required NOC for the ongoing inquiry. The minister stated that while the deceased student's mother believed her son took his life due to abuse by fellow students, the school management denied the allegations. He emphasized that the government was taking the complaint seriously, announcing an investigation and having the Director of General Education meet with parents, teachers, and representatives from the Global Public School and Kakkanad Gems School.

Sivankutty mentioned that after Mihir Ahammed's death, several parents reported similar bullying experiences. One parent revealed their child was subjected to severe ragging, leading to suicidal thoughts, and had to transfer to another school after the Global Public School ignored the complaint. The minister added that the education department was preparing a report and would take follow-up actions soon. Addressing such serious matters the establishment of a complaint registration system underscores the government's commitment to ensuring the safety and well-being of students, holding schools accountable, and fostering a more supportive and transparent educational environment across the state.

Editor's Note:

The recent announcement by General Education Minister V. Sivankutty regarding the establishment of a complaint registration system for schools is a crucial step towards ensuring the safety and well-being of our children. We must raise awareness and address issues like bullying, abuse, and non-compliance with regulations in educational institutions. The tragic case of Mihir Ahammed serves as a reminder of the devastating impact that unchecked bullying can have on students. The active involvement of parents, teachers, and authorities in addressing these concerns is essential. By creating a platform for complaints and taking prompt action, the government is taking a significant step towards safeguarding our children’s future.

Skoobuzz urges all to contribute to this initiative by staying vigilant and ensuring that every child receives the education and care they deserve.