Kerala High Court Directs Government to Issue Guidelines on School Playground Extent

In a significant move emphasizing holistic education, the Kerala High Court has mandated the state government to formulate guidelines defining the extent of playgrounds required in schools, along with necessary facilities. The directive underscores the integral role of extracurricular activities, including sports and games, in a child’s educational journey.

Justice P V Kunhikrishnan issued the order, stressing that education transcends the confines of classrooms and encompasses activities fostering physical, social, emotional, and imaginative development. The court directed the government to issue comprehensive guidelines within four months, emphasizing adherence by all schools across the state.

The ruling stemmed from a notable observation: while national educational bodies like the CBSE and CISCE delineate playground requirements, the Kerala Education Act and Rules lack specificity on the matter. Highlighting this disparity, the court underscored the imperative of regulating playground dimensions and amenities in schools to ensure a conducive learning environment.

Acknowledging the historical context of many schools lacking adequate playgrounds due to subsequent constructions, the court cautioned against exploiting regulatory gaps. It deemed playgrounds indispensable, integral to a child’s holistic development, and stressed their role in enhancing physical, social, and cognitive skills.

The court underscored that playgrounds serve as dynamic learning spaces where children cultivate essential life skills through play, fostering cognitive, emotional, and social growth. Emphasizing the symbiotic relationship between education and extracurricular activities, the ruling champions a balanced educational ecosystem encompassing diverse learning environments.

The case originated from a plea filed by the Parent Teachers Association of a Government Welfare Lower Primary School in Pathanamthitta, challenging unauthorized construction within the school compound. However, subsequent to the plea, the proposed construction was abandoned, resolving the grievance.

The court’s directive heralds a pivotal step towards enriching educational standards in Kerala, underscoring the imperative of holistic development through robust infrastructure and extracurricular engagement.

 If you like this law news, share it with a friend!