PNS | DEHRADUN
The State Commission for Protection of Child Rights (SCPCR) chairwoman Geeta Khanna will send a letter to all district magistrates in the State to address the exploitation of students in pre-primary schools. Notably, during a recent Press conference, Khanna voiced her concerns about pre-primary institutions that admit children at an early age, contrary to the guidelines established by the National Education Policy (NEP) 2020, which permits enrollment only for children aged three years and older. In light of this situation, the president of the National Association for Parents and Student Rights (NAPSR), Arif Khan recently emphasised the importance of the SCPCR collaborating with the Education department to form a monitoring committee dedicated to overseeing pre-primary schools. This committee will focus on ensuring adherence to the applicable guidelines.
Considering this, Khanna informed that she has repeatedly written to the Education department regarding the issue of exploitative practices by pre-primary schools in enrolling students below the age of three. However, no action has been taken on this issue so far. Consequently, she has decided to send a letter to all district magistrates in the State, asking them to oversee and inspect pre-primary schools that are not complying with the guidelines set forth by the NEP 2020 in terms of student enrollment. Further, she said that she urged the DMs should also examine other institutions, including Madarsas, coaching centres, rehabilitation centres and similar establishments. Should any pre-primary school or institution be found engaging in such activities that are detrimental to children, immediate action should be taken by the DMs. She further highlighted that there are currently no established norms governing the establishment of pre-primary schools. To prevent the exploitation of children, it is essential for the relevant officials to formulate and implement norms related to the establishment of pre-primary schools, she added.
