Sachnews Jammu Kashmir
Srinagar, April 16: Director School Education Kashmir, G.N. Itoo, clarified on Wednesday that there is no blanket ban on school or college picnics. Instead, the department has issued a set of Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) aimed at ensuring the safety of students during educational tours, excursions, and picnics.
While speaking to reporters, G.N. Itoo, as per Sachnews Jammu Kashmir, said, “We haven’t imposed a ban on picnics. What we have done is issued clear guidelines on the necessary precautions and permissions required before organizing such trips, to prioritize the safety of students.”
He further informed that a high-level meeting was recently chaired by the Hon’ble Education Minister, attended by officials from various departments including Traffic Department, Transport Department, School Education, and Administration, to devise a coordinated approach for student safety.
Highlighting the importance of such outings in overall learning, Itoo said, “Excursions and exposure visits are vital for a student’s educational growth, but at the same time, safety is non-negotiable.”
As per the newly issued SOPs:
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Middle schools and below must obtain permission from the respective Zonal Education Officer (ZEO).
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High and Higher Secondary Schools are to seek clearance from the concerned Chief Education Officer (CEO).
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For trips outside the home district, prior approval from the Directorate of School Education is mandatory.