The state education department has issued a six-point set of instructions to ensure the smooth functioning of Saraswati Vidya Niketan (Model Schools), directing district-level officials to strengthen administrative arrangements and address issues affecting academic activities. The directions include strict enforcement of the 75% attendance requirement, avoiding the use of school premises as examination centres and preventing police personnel from being accommodated in these institutions as far as possible.In a communication addressed to district officials, the department asked authorities to accord the instructions “top priority” and ensure their implementation across all Saraswati Vidya Niketans in the state. The measures were framed following suggestions received during official meetings and cover school administration, infrastructure, staff availability and academic support.
Department asks officials to avoid police accommodation in Model Schools
Among the six directions, the department has specifically asked officials to avoid making arrangements for police housing or accommodation within Model School premises, as far as possible. The instruction seeks to ensure that school infrastructure remains available primarily for educational activities.The department has also advised against designating Saraswati Vidya Niketans as examination centres. If such an arrangement cannot be avoided, the District Education Officer may be asked to recommend alternative venues. The direction is aimed at preventing examination-related arrangements from interfering with the regular functioning of schools.
Staff shortages to be addressed through deputation
The communication has also taken note of staff shortages in Model Schools. Where clerks or attendants have not been appointed, district authorities have been asked to arrange for personnel from nearby schools to be deputed to these institutions.The availability of non-teaching staff is important for handling routine administrative responsibilities and ensuring that teachers can focus on classroom activities. The department has, therefore, called for local arrangements to address vacancies and prevent administrative work from being affected.
75% attendance rule to be strictly enforced
Student attendance is another major focus of the department’s instructions. Officials have been directed to strictly enforce the 75% attendance requirement for students enrolled in Saraswati Vidya Niketans.The department has emphasised compliance with the prescribed attendance norm, making it clear that district authorities must ensure that students attend school regularly. The direction places responsibility on school administrations to monitor attendance and take the necessary steps to improve student participation in academic activities.
Special classes for students failing Class 9
The department has also called for additional academic support for students who fail Class 9. Officials have been instructed to arrange special classes for these students to help them address learning gaps and improve their academic performance.The provision of additional classroom support is intended to give students another opportunity to strengthen their understanding of subjects and prepare better for subsequent academic assessments.
Monitoring of morning assemblies and Chetna Satra
The instructions also cover the conduct of morning assemblies, known as ‘Chetna Satra’. The department has asked school authorities to ensure that these sessions are conducted properly and that musical instruments are used appropriately.An official nominated by the district authorities will be responsible for regularly monitoring the arrangements. The monitoring mechanism is intended to ensure that morning assemblies are conducted as prescribed and that schools maintain consistency in their daily activities.
Six-point directive puts focus on school administration
The department’s six-point communication brings together administrative and academic measures aimed at improving the functioning of Saraswati Vidya Niketans across the state. From addressing shortages of clerks and attendants to regulating the use of school premises, the instructions seek to ensure that these institutions can operate without avoidable administrative disruptions.Strict attendance monitoring, special classes for students who fail Class 9 and regular supervision of Chetna Satra form the academic component of the directive. District-level officials have been asked to treat the instructions as a priority and ensure compliance across all Model Schools.The implementation of these measures will depend on district authorities and school administrations ensuring that the prescribed arrangements are followed consistently.
