Major changes coming to school buses; government decision brings relief to parents

THIRUVANANTHAPURAM: The state government is planning a crucial change in school buses to improve student safety. It has been decided to make Police Clearance Certificates mandatory for all staff working in school buses, including drivers. The certificate will confirm that there are no criminal cases against them. This rule was earlier implemented for private buses, but now it is being extended to school buses as well. The new requirement is included in the School Safety Manual issued by the Education Department for the upcoming academic year.

Earlier, there was a general rule that bus staff should have good character, but no certificate was required. Now, all staff must provide an official police clearance certificate. They can obtain this certificate from their local police stations. Schools have been directed to strictly implement this rule. In private buses, only drivers were required to have a police clearance certificate. Other staff members were not included under this rule.

However, in the case of school buses, the new rule will apply not just to drivers but to all staff working on the bus. Parents often worry about the safety of their children and the possibility of individuals with criminal backgrounds working in school transport. This new decision is expected to bring relief and reassurance to parents.