High Court mandates 220 academic days; Minister urges teachers' cooperation

THIRUVANANTHAPURAM: Education Minister V Sivankutty said that 220 study days is the KER rule and there is a High Court decision in this regard. This has been clarified in KER-Chapter 7 Rule 3. The minister also said that the teachers should cooperate in this regard to raise the learning standards of the children.

Department of Public Education is trying to ensure excellent training for teachers. Training is provided according to the needs of modern times. SSK is an institution under the Department of Public Education. Teachers should cooperate with the training process. Complaints, if any, will be reviewed if submitted in written form.

In relation to the mid-day meal scheme, the rate has been increased considering the demand of the teachers. It must be remembered that no such action was taken during the UDF. No teacher shall be liable in any way in connection with the scheme. The government will ensure this.

The crisis over higher secondary teachers' salaries is technical. Government action is in accordance with the decisions of the High Court and the Administrative Tribunal. The minister also stated that the crisis of non-payment of salaries to a section of teachers has been resolved through a special circular.