The Kerala government recently announced the decision to bring in changes in the school timings in the state.
As per the latest revision, the school hours were extended by 15 minutes each in the morning and afternoon, except on Fridays, for 16 days a month. This, as per the officials, is being done to meet the mandated instructional time of 220 teaching days as specified under the national education calendar and state regulations.
However, he announcement was not taken well by some muslim groups in the state who have reportedly decided to launch protests against the state government's decision to extend school hours by 30 minutes.
The Samastha Kerala Jem-iyyathul Ulama, a prominent association of Sunni scholars with the largest support base among Kerala Muslims, says the revised schedule would affect the madrassa education for nearly 12 lakh students.
Responding to the clamour, Kerala General Education Minister V Sivankutty reiterated that school timings cannot be changed to accommodate a particular community as the interests of many students are at stake.
Also Read | UGC to draw plans for a central body to regulate school and higher education fees
He also clarified that the decision to extend school timings by 30 minutes was taken based on the directions of the Kerala High Court and therefore, anyone aggrieved by the same can seek legal remedies.
"Religious organisations should not unnecessarily interfere in the education sector. Such interference cannot be accepted under any circumstances," asserted the minister.
Also Read | Why is the Zumba dance programme introduced in Kerala schools facing heat from Muslim groups?
