APSCPCR highlights concerns over unregulated schools and child safety

Itanagar, Feb 18: The Arunachal Pradesh State Commission for Protection of Child Rights (APSCPCR) on Tuesday summoned the deputy director of school education (DDSE) of capital region and the nodal officer of the mid- day meal (MDM) programme to address key issues concerning schools in the state capital.

The Commission sought details on the status of registered and unregistered schools in ICR, MDM provisions, and the constitution of Prahari Clubs in educational institutions.

The Commission expressed concern over the rise of unregulated schools lacking adequate infrastructure and guidelines, jeopardizing both education quality and children’s safety. It stressed the importance of cautious school registration to avoid locations near wine shops, unsafe areas, and other existing schools.

The DDSE reported that 35 schools under ICR jurisdiction had received show-cause notices with penalties of Rs 1 lakh for operating without proper registration. The department promised to monitor their status moving forward.

The Commission also expressed dissatisfaction with the tokenistic implementation of Prahari Clubs in ICR schools.

Despite being formed, these clubs seem to exist only on paper, lacking genuine understanding or proper execution. The Commission had previously written to the education department about the need for proper functioning Prahari Clubs in secondary and senior secondary schools to combat the increasing use of tobacco, alcohol, and substance abuse among children.

A proposal was made for a coordination meeting with the DDSE and school heads to address ICR-specific issues and the functioning of Prahari Clubs. The Commission also directed the DDSE to establish anti-nagging committees and appoint special educators in all CBSE-affiliated schools.

A full Commission meeting was later held, chaired by the chairperson Ratan Anya, to discuss matters related to the implementation of the Right to Education (RTE) Act in the state.

The Commission has been visiting schools across ICR in January and February to monitor RTE implementation and will discuss its findings with the education department soon.