Study load in higher secondary schools damaging mental health and leading to substance abuse

THIRUVANANTHAPURAM: Prof. V. Karthikeyan committee report that the study load in higher secondary is damaging the mental health of children and causing them to be under the influence of intoxicating substances. The committee also assesses that the reason for not getting the opportunity for social interaction and sports training is due to the study load.

The children are in the classrooms continuously from nine in the morning to 4.45 in the evening. Lunch break is only half an hour. Unable to use the library, engage in school parliament-club activities, social interactions and sports training. Children are deprived of the opportunity to grow up with a sense of democracy. The Committee suggests that the matter be given serious consideration.

The committee also found that it was not clear whether the subject combinations given by the students as first option were based on their own taste. Many choose combinations based on what their parents and friends tell them.

In the combinations that more people are opting for, there are seats available in some fields, so those with less merit get admission. At least some of those who get admission drop out. Students and parents should be given a basic understanding of choosing a suitable course at the high school level. The committee also suggests that after assessing whether the Kerala Differential Aptitude Test, which is now accepted in higher secondary, is officially approved by the expert committee, it can be implemented at the high school level.