Should Students Be Assigned Election Duties at the Expense of Their Studies?
Click to start listening
Synopsis
Kerala's Education Minister, V. Sivankutty, takes a stand against the involvement of students in election duties that may interfere with their studies. He emphasizes the importance of protecting students' right to education, especially during critical examination periods. This article explores the implications of this policy and the balance between civic duty and academic responsibilities.
Key Takeaways
- Students' right to education must be prioritized over election duties.
- The Right to Education Act safeguards instructional hours.
- Engaging students in non-academic tasks can disrupt their learning.
- Educational staff are being utilized for election responsibilities.
- Maintaining a balance between civic duties and academic commitments is crucial.
Thiruvananthapuram, Nov 25 (NationPress) The Minister for General Education and Labour in Kerala, V. Sivankutty, firmly criticized the ongoing practice of involving students, particularly those from NSS and NCC, in election duties that could disrupt their educational commitments.
The Minister cautioned that such practices could hinder academic progress, especially as Kerala schools are operating at full capacity and critical examinations, including public assessments, are on the horizon.
In response to reports indicating that several revenue officials were looking to recruit student volunteers for tasks such as electoral roll revision, data collection, and digitization, Sivankutty emphasized that pulling students from their classrooms for over 10 days for such non-educational activities is simply unacceptable and infringes on their right to education.
He pointed to the provisions of the Right to Education Act, stressing the importance of safeguarding children's learning time.
While he recognized the value of NSS and NCC in fostering extracurricular growth and community service, he maintained that it is inappropriate to assign students to official duties during school hours, particularly if those tasks do not enhance their educational experience.
“Using young individuals for official tasks that do not relate to their education is a breach of their right to learn. We have issued strict directives to the Education Department officials to ensure that no measures disrupt classroom activities or hinder students from preparing for their upcoming exams,” he stated.
The Minister also pointed out that the state has already mobilized personnel within the education sector to fulfill election responsibilities.
Currently, a total of 5,623 staff members from the Education Department are engaged as Booth Level Officers as part of the ongoing intensive electoral roll verification process.
This workforce comprises 2,938 teachers, 2,104 non-teaching staff, and 581 additional employees.
Sivankutty clarified that while the department supports national duties through institutional involvement, it will not endorse any actions that jeopardize students’ academic interests.
Point of View
It is essential to uphold the sanctity of education while encouraging civic participation. The Minister's stance reflects a responsible approach to balancing students' academic obligations with their social responsibilities. Ensuring that education remains uninterrupted is crucial for the nation’s future.
NationPress
25/11/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
Why did the Kerala Education Minister oppose student involvement in election duties?
The Minister opposed student involvement in election duties because it could disrupt their academic schedule, particularly with important examinations approaching.
What is the Right to Education Act?
The Right to Education Act ensures that every child has the right to free and compulsory education, emphasizing the protection of instructional hours.
How many staff from the Education Department are involved in electoral duties?
Currently, 5,623 personnel from the Education Department are working as Booth Level Officers for electoral roll verification.
What is the role of NSS and NCC in education?
The NSS and NCC are intended for extracurricular development and community service, but their activities should not interfere with students' academic responsibilities.
What measures are being taken to support education during elections?
The state has mobilized education sector staff to handle election-related tasks while ensuring that students' academic interests remain protected.
