Textbooks to be distributed before June 1, says Minister

General Education Minister of Kerala N. Shamsudheen has assured that textbook distribution across the State will be completed before schools reopen on June 1.

Speaking to the media after visiting the Malappuram Book Depot and the Higher Secondary regional deputy director’s office here on Saturday, he said textbooks must reach students before the reopening of schools, and all necessary arrangements were being put in place to ensure timely delivery.

He said that meetings had been held with officials to ensure that delays in printing do not disrupt textbook distribution. “Only a small number of books remain to be delivered in Malappuram district,” he said. “All required textbooks for the State will be supplied before May 30.”

He also pointed out that over 80% of the textbooks had been printed three days earlier. Detailed guidelines have been issued for school fitness inspections as well as reopening-related activities, he said.

Mr. Shamsudheen said the appointment of teachers at GLP School, Pang, was completed recently. The school lost nearly all its teachers, including the headmistress, in a road accident at Valparai near Pollachi a few weeks ago. He further said that special support measures, including counselling, would be arranged under the Education department in consultation with Manjalamkuzhi Ali, MLA, to help students and teachers cope with the emotional impact.

While visiting the Malappuram Higher Secondary regional deputy director’s office, he reviewed the administrative processes, and assured that urgent requirements and necessary repair works would be addressed.