Thiruvananthapuram: In a key decision aimed at streamlining academic activities, the Kerala government will extend the working hours in high schools by 30 minutes starting next week. As per the new directive from the Education Department, school days will begin 15 minutes earlier and end 15 minutes later. The updated timetable will come into effect soon, aligning with the annual academic calendar, announced Education Minister V. Sivankutty.
The Minister also addressed concerns over the freezing of Samagra Shiksha funds by the Centre, attributing it to Kerala’s non-implementation of the PM SHRI scheme. He stated that the state is considering holding another round of discussions with the Union Education Minister to resolve the funding deadlock.
Looking ahead, the state plans to incorporate the Chief Minister’s suggestions into this year’s school reopening celebrations by developing a comprehensive academic master plan. The final draft of the plan will be discussed with stakeholders from various sectors on June 21.
Meanwhile, action has been initiated against Deputy Directors of Education (DDEs) who failed to respond to cases filed under the POCSO Act, with formal notices already issued.
A statewide student census is also underway today across government, aided, and recognized unaided schools following the state syllabus, based on the sixth working day of the 2025–26 academic year. Student data must be submitted by 5 PM, with late submissions deemed invalid. Headmasters will be held accountable for any discrepancies.
The Minister emphasized that staff allocation will be based on valid identity documentation of students. He also reassured that no student should be denied admission due to the absence of Aadhaar, affirming that such a scenario does not exist in Kerala.
