Over 2.40 lakh students enrolled in Class 1 as the new academic year began in Kerala on Monday, following a two-month summer vacation.

A total of 39,94,944 students, including 1,34,763 in pre-primary, 11,59,652 in lower primary, and 12,09,882 in high school, will attend classes this year, according to state education department officials. The total number of new admissions in Class 1 is 2,44,646. The exact number of students from Class 1 to 10 will be available in the second week of June as more enrollments are expected during this period.

Teachers warmly welcomed students by decorating schools and classrooms with colorful festoons and glitter. Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan inaugurated the state-level admission festival, ‘Praveshanotsavam,’ at the Government Higher Secondary School in Elamakkara, Ernakulam district. In his inaugural address, he highlighted the transformation of state-run schools with hi-tech classrooms and diverse facilities. He emphasized their role in fostering scientific temper and preparing children for the future.

The Chief Minister underscored the importance of teachers in nurturing a scientific mindset among students from a young age. He also noted that the government is committed to strengthening the public education system to equip children to face future challenges. State-run schools are now equipped with hi-tech classrooms, robotic kits, and innovative curricula that promote knowledge, creativity, and fun.

Textbooks and uniforms were distributed to students before the start of the academic year. This transformation in schools is part of the government’s ongoing efforts to turn Kerala into a knowledge society. The state’s education sector comprises 13,000 schools, over 45 lakh students, two lakh teachers, and 20,000 non-teaching staff.

The inaugural event featured dances and other cultural performances by students and was attended by General Education Minister V Sivankutty, Industries Minister P Rajeeve, and other representatives. The celebrations marked a festive and enthusiastic start to the new academic year, reflecting the government’s commitment to providing quality education and fostering a vibrant learning environment for all students across the state.

Source: PTI

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