Srinagar: The Directorate of School Education Kashmir (DSEK) has issued Standard Operating Procedures (SoPs) for government and recognised private schools and coaching centres to be mandatorily followed while planning picnics and outings of the students.
The DSEK, while issuing SoPs, has stated that excursions and picnics were crucial in the NEP-2020 framework for promoting holistic student development, experiential learning, and a more engaging educational experience.
“These picnics offer a break from the traditional classroom setting, encouraging social interaction, team building, and real-world learning opportunities but at the same time we need to ensure the safety and wellbeing of the students which needs to be our prime concern during these pace setting exercises,” reads a circular issued by DSEK.
The circular instructions to follow SoPs have been issued in wake of the advisory from the Tourism Department, Kashmir and the Traffic Police J&K.
“It has been felt imperative to issue Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) for Government and recognised private schools, and coaching centres in the interest of students’ safety and wellbeing during such outings,” it reads.
The schools have been asked to obtain consent from parents at least 10 days before the scheduled trip.
“High and Higher Secondary Schools should mandatorily get permission from the concerned Chief Education Officer (CEOs), whereas Primary and Middle Schools from the concerned Zonal Education Officer,” it reads.
The concerned CEO and ZEO have been asked to grant permission only to the schools, subject to the condition that the schools hire licensed transport operators approved by the Motor Vehicle Department (MVD).
“Parents should be informed about the purpose of the trip, timing, destination, and items to carry. The visiting spot should be selected on the basis of its educational implications to derive maximum benefit to the students and teachers about their learning and teaching,” it reads.
The schools have been asked to depute one active staff member, in advance to the proposed place to coordinate with the development authority and local administration under whom the proposed place falls.
“All the school staff should be given full responsibility of the activities related to discipline and safety of students during the picnic. Senior staff members should not skip this outing but guide other staff members properly,” the DSEK circular reads.
As per the DSEK circular students should not leave before 8.00 am from the campus of the school and should be back to their respective homes by 6 pm.
“Schools should ensure adequate supervision with a minimum ratio of 1 teacher per 15 students for escorting them. First aid kits must be carried on all trips, and at least one staff member should be trained in basic first aid,” it reads.
The schools have been directed that emergency contact numbers and health information for all students must be available with staff.
“Educational institutions shall cooperate with police and security agencies deployed for maintenance of law and order. Educational institutions shall not allow the students to venture or play near the water bodies, restricted areas, forest areas or any such place which may prove dangerous or shall be conflicting with the wild animals,” it reads.
The schools have been asked to hire authorised and licensed transport operators approved by the Motor Vehicle Department and should possess all the requisite certificates.
“Vehicles must be in good condition with proper documentation, including registration, insurance and fitness certificates. The escort drivers must have a valid driving license,” it reads.
It reads that escort teachers must ensure that nobody should be allowed to encourage thrilling driving during the travel and the speed must be strictly maintained as per the prescribed limits and road conditions.
“Students should wear proper uniform and no student should be allowed to travel without proper school uniform. Students are expected to follow the code of conduct and behave responsibly at all times,” it reads.
The schools have been asked to discourage consumption of junk food, plastic and polythene use, or any prohibited items by the students and wastage should be properly disposed of in dust bins. “Teachers must ensure that students move only in safe spaces and avoid unsafe activities,” it reads.
The schools have been asked to follow weather advisories before planning outdoor activities and make arrangements for drinking water, sun protection, and hygienic food.
“Avoid destinations with potential health risks or unsafe conditions. Long-distance picnics and outings shall be avoided for middle school level,” it reads.
The DSEK has stated that the cooperation of all school staff is essential in ensuring that school outings or picnics remain safe, enjoyable, and educational experiences for students.
“The SOPs, as mentioned above, shall be followed in letter and spirit,” it read
