Srinagar: A day after tragic accident in which two girl students lost life and 21 others were injured, Directorate of School Education Kashmir (DSEK) has issued Standard Operating Procedures (SoPs) for government and recognised private schools and coaching centres regarding picnics and outing of the students.
The DSEK while issuing SoPs has stated that excursions and picnics were crucial in the NEP-2020 framework for promoting holistic student development, experiential learning, and a more engaging educational experience.
“These picnics offer a break from the traditional classroom setting, encouraging social interaction, team building, and real-world learning opportunities but at the same time we need to ensure the safety and wellbeing of the students which needs to be our prime concern during these pace setting exercises,” reads a circular issued by DSEK.
The circular instructions to follow SoPs have been issued in wake of the advisory from Tourism Department, Kashmir and Traffic Police J&K.
“It has been felt imperative to issue Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) for Government and recognised private schools, and coaching centres in the interest of student’s safety and wellbeing during such outings,” it reads.
The schools have been asked to obtain consent from parents at least 10 days before the scheduled trip.
“High and Higher Secondary Schools should mandatorily get permission from the concerned Chief Education Officer (CEOs) while as Primary and Middle Schools from the concerned Zonal Education Officer,” it reads.
The concerned CEO and ZEO have been asked to grant permission only to the schools subject to the conditions that if the schools hire licensed transport operators approved by the Motor Vehicle Department (MVD).
“Parents should be informed about the purpose of the trip, timing, destination, and items to carry. The visiting spot should be selected on the basis of its educational implications to derive maximum benefit to the students and teachers about their learning teaching,” it reads.
DSEK Issues SOP On Picnics
