A Groundbreaking Initiative in Kerala: No Textbooks for Two Weeks of New Academic Year

Kerala, 17 May 2025: The Kerala government's decision to conduct social awareness classes in the first two weeks of the new academic year 2025 - 2026 starting in the first week of June, is a pioneering move that deserves appreciation.

This innovative initiative aims to educate students on pressing social issues, equipping them with the knowledge and skills necessary to navigate the complexities of modern life.

In 2023, the Kerala government had issued yet another order directing schools to strictly adhere to allocated periods for physical training (PT), arts, and games, prohibiting the teaching of other subjects during these times. This decision aimed to prioritize students' holistic development, ensuring they benefit fully from extracurricular activities. By doing so, the government emphasized the importance of balancing academic learning with physical and creative pursuits, fostering well-rounded individuals.

Key Features of the Programme

- Duration: The social awareness programme will run for two week.

- Topics: The curriculum covers vital themes such as:

- Drug Abuse Prevention: Educating students about the dangers of substance abuse and its prevention.

- Emotional Regulation and Mental Health: Focusing on emotional control, mental well-being, and stress management.

- Environmental and Personal Hygiene: Promoting cleanliness, sanitation, and healthy habits.

- Law and Civic Awareness: Introducing students to civic responsibilities, legal awareness, and digital safety.

- Digital Safety and Responsible Online Behaviour: Teaching students about online etiquette, cyberbullying, and digital citizenship.

Advantages of the Programme

- Holistic Education: The programme aims to provide a well-rounded education that goes beyond academics, focusing on students' emotional, social, and civic development.

- Socially Conscious Individuals: By instilling social awareness and responsibility in students, the government hopes to shape them into more empathetic and engaged citizens.

- Addressing Contemporary Challenges: The initiative responds to growing concerns about students' social and emotional well-being, substance abuse, and behavioural issues.

A Model for Others to Follow

Kerala's initiative sets a remarkable example for other states and countries to follow. By prioritizing social awareness and life skills development, governments can empower future generations to become compassionate, responsible, and engaged citizens. This programme demonstrates the potential for education to drive positive social change and promote a more informed, empathetic, and socially conscious society.

Implementation and Impact

- Timetable Adjustments: Schools will restructure their timetables to incorporate more time for arts, sports, and social education throughout the academic year.

- Collaborative Approach: The programme's success relies on the collaboration between multiple departments, experts, and teachers, ensuring a comprehensive and practical curriculum.

- Potential Impact: By prioritizing social awareness and life skills development, Kerala's initiative has the potential to create a positive impact on students' lives, shaping them into more empathetic and responsible individuals.

The Kerala government's social awareness programme is a groundbreaking initiative that deserves appreciation and recognition. By prioritizing social awareness and life skills development, the government is empowering students to become compassionate, responsible, and engaged citizens. Let's hope that other states and educational institutions will take note of Kerala's innovative approach and consider implementing similar programmes, working towards creating a more informed, empathetic, and socially conscious society.

By Fr. Suresh Mathew