The Rajasthan education department has issued a comprehensive 38-point safety and security protocol for private schools following recurring complaints about safety violations and regulatory lapses. The directive aims to strengthen child protection measures, improve infrastructure, and ensure strict adherence to fee and admission norms.
Key Directives from the Order
In an order issued on Wednesday, Director of Secondary Education Sitaram Jat stated that certain private schools have failed to comply with directives regarding adequate arrangements for student safety. The department noted periodic complaints related to student safety, sale of textbooks and uniforms on premises, school transport violations, denial of transfer certificates, preventing students from appearing in exams, unauthorized fee hikes, and violations of RTE admission provisions.
Student Movement and Restroom Use
The guidelines emphasize monitoring students' movement within school premises. Schools must allow restroom use during designated breaks. If a student needs to leave class at other times, they must return within the expected timeframe. For distant toilets, students should be kept under visual observation. Younger students, especially girls, should not be sent alone to restrooms whenever possible.
Infrastructure and Security Measures
Schools must ensure safe electrical systems, install railings on staircases in multi-storey buildings, and provide safety nets or grills over open courtyards. No high-tension electricity lines should pass through school premises. Any unknown or suspicious individual on campus must be immediately questioned. Schools must also conduct 'Good Touch, Bad Touch' awareness programmes for students.
Fee and Admission Norms
The department clarified that admission fees can only be charged at initial enrolment, and tuition fees must be collected monthly or quarterly. If a school is found at fault, an inquiry report with recommendations should be sent immediately to the Directorate for action.
