SRINAGAR, Apr 13: A day after two students died in a tragic road accident during a school picnic in Handwara, the Directorate of School Education Kashmir has issued a detailed set of Standard Operating Procedures to be followed by schools during outings, picnics, excursions, and related activities.
It said that student safety as the top priority and mandated strict adherence to guidelines covering transportation, supervision, and planning. The safety and wellbeing of students is the prime concern,.
Govt has barred middle schools from undertaking long-distance trips and made it mandatory for schools to seek prior permission-10 days in advance-from relevant education officers. High and higher secondary schools must approach the Chief Education Officer, while primary and middle schools must get approvals from the Zonal Education Officer.
Transportation norms have been made more stringent, with schools required to use only vehicles approved by the Motor Vehicle Department. Drivers must hold valid licenses, and the vehicles must have updated registration, insurance, and fitness certificates, the directives state.
The circular also prescribes a teacher-student supervision ratio of 1:15, carrying first aid kits, and deploying at least one staff member trained in basic first aid. Schools have also been instructed to coordinate with local authorities and police, and avoid routes or locations near water bodies, forest areas, or other hazardous zones. Also the picnic timings have been restricted between 8:00 AM and 6:00 PM.
Additionally, it has been further stated that students must be informed about the trip’s purpose, destination, and necessary items to carry. Schools have also been advised to check weather forecasts and arrange for safe drinking water and hygienic food.
All schools shall follow these SOPs in letter and spirit to ensure that excursions remain safe, enjoyable, and educational.
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