RAIPUR: The Chhattisgarh School Education Department has issued comprehensive new guidelines for all non-aided private pre-primary schools in the state. Under the directives, all such schools must register with the district education officer (DEO) within three months. This move, aligned with High Court orders, aims to regulate early childhood education, improve safety, and ensure quality standards across the state.
Schools are required to submit essential documents, including details of the institution, academic and professional qualifications of teachers, and other relevant records. Only registered schools will be allowed to operate, emphasizing the government’s focus on accountability and transparency.
Age Limits and Admission Rules
The guidelines set strict age norms for admission to Nursery, KG-I, and KG-II classes, following recommendations by the National Commission for Protection of Child Rights (NCPCR). Admission of children below three years of age is strictly prohibited. Age verification will be based solely on government-prescribed valid documents.
Safe and Play-Based Learning Environments
To promote holistic development, schools are mandated to provide a safe, clean, hygienic, and play-based learning environment. The use of physical punishment or mental harassment of children is strictly forbidden. Authorities emphasize that such measures are essential to ensure the overall well-being and healthy growth of young learners.
Parent-Teacher Committee (PTC) with Strong Women Representation
A key feature of the guidelines is the formation of a Parent-Teacher Committee (PTC) to oversee school operations. The PTC must comprise 75% parents and 25% teachers, with 75% of the members being women. Each class will contribute one parent member, and the chairperson will be selected from among the parents.
The PTC will have a tenure of one year and is required to meet at least once every three months. Schools must maintain detailed records of meetings. The committee will monitor and guide arrangements for children’s safety, health, hygiene, and play-based education, ensuring that parents have a strong voice in school governance.
Government Oversight and Compliance
District Education Officers have been directed to ensure that all pre-primary schools in their districts complete registration within three months. Regular inspections will follow to ensure continued compliance with the prescribed standards and rules.
A Milestone for Early Childhood Education
These directives are being hailed as a crucial step towards improving the quality, safety, and transparency of pre-primary education in Chhattisgarh. By enforcing strict age norms, creating safe learning spaces, and ensuring strong parental participation—especially women—the government aims to strengthen the foundation of early education across the state.
