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Kerala report flags 1,157 schools as unfit for classes. Authorities stress urgent renovation and safety checks to protect thousands of students.
1,157 schools in Kerala declared unsafe, urgent renovation and safety checks needed. (Representational Image/Getty)
A recent report tabled in the Kerala Assembly has revealed that as many as 1,157 schools across the state have buildings declared “unfit” for conducting classes. The figures were shared by the Local Self Government Department (LSGD), even as the state government has been highlighting its efforts in upgrading school infrastructure.
In response to a question raised by Karunagappally MLA C. R. Mahesh, General Education Minister V. Sivankutty admitted the problem and said the government is taking the issue seriously. “While new school buildings are being constructed using plan funds and through KIIFB (Kerala Infrastructure Investment Fund Board) projects, separate allocations are also being used for maintenance,” he said in a written reply.
District-wise data shows Kollam topping the list with 143 schools that have unsafe buildings, followed by Alappuzha with 134 schools and Thiruvananthapuram with 120.
As per existing rules, all schools must secure fitness certificates from their respective local bodies before reopening each academic year. The fresh numbers highlight the urgent need for faster renovation and safety checks to ensure thousands of students across Kerala can study in a secure environment.
Zumba In Schools Sparks Debate
Even as the state grapples with infrastructure issues, Kerala has also faced a controversy over the introduction of Zumba dance in schools. The initiative, launched in July, was added to the curriculum as part of the government’s anti-drug campaign and aims to promote both physical fitness and mental well-being among students.
While many have welcomed the move, it has also sparked criticism. Supporters argue the sessions help children cope with stress, while critics allege they encourage inappropriate intermingling of boys and girls.
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Roma Mansoor, a certified International Zumba Fitness instructor, welcomed the initiative. “I am happy to say that the Kerala government has taken initiative to promote Zumba in schools. It is a great initiative because nowadays children are addicted to many things that ruin their mindset. Zumba can help them relax their mind…It will help the children to increase their confidence. As it is a calorie-burning workout, it is a good move for weight management also…” she told ANI.
However, opposition grew after some religious groups voiced concerns. On June 28, Muslim organisations in Thiruvananthapuram objected to the practice, saying they could not accept boys and girls dancing together or wearing inappropriate clothing.
The backlash intensified after TK Ashraf, a teacher and General Secretary of the Wisdom Islamic Organisation, posted on Facebook that he and his son would not participate. “Cannot accept this, and my son and I will not participate in this,” he wrote.
Samastha Kerala Jamiyyathul Ulama leader Nassar Faizy Koodathai also joined in, criticising the sessions as “inappropriate” and a violation of students’ rights.
Government Defends Move
Despite the criticism, the Kerala Education Department has defended the initiative, clarifying that participation is voluntary. Officials stressed that the Zumba programme was part of a broader effort to help children handle academic stress and keep them away from drugs.
Minister V. Sivankutty strongly stood by the move, calling objections misplaced. “No one has asked children to wear minimal clothes. Children are wearing school uniforms and performing this,” he said, adding that opposing such activities would inject “poison that is more deadly than drugs” into society.
CPI(M) leader MA Baby also supported the government’s stand, dismissing the backlash. He called the controversy “absolutely untrue.”
(With inputs from ANI)
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October 03, 2025, 09:18 IST
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