Gurukuls ordered to prioritise student safety with regular medical checkups and nutritious meals

Hyderabad: Minister Ponnam Prabhakar on Friday held a crucial Zoom meeting with 327 principals of BC gurukuls across the State, along with Regional Coordinators (RCOs), Gurukul secretary Saidulu, BC Welfare Department secretary Sridhar, and other officials.

During the meeting, minister Prabhakar expressed his dismay over the recent series of incidents occurring in gurukuls. He issued stern directives to ensure the safety and well-being of students, emphasising accountability at all levels.

Key directives and warnings from minister Prabhakar included:

Mandatory inspections by RCOs: RCOs are to compulsorily inspect gurukuls regularly to ensure proper functioning and adherence to guidelines.

Constant supervision: Principals and teachers must maintain continuous supervision over students to prevent untoward incidents.

Prompt reporting: Any incident occurring within the gurukuls must be immediately brought to the attention of higher authorities.

Uncompromising quality of food: The minister stressed that there should be no compromise in providing quality food to children. He warned of strict action against anyone found negligent in this regard.

Increased mess charges for nutritious food: He highlighted that the government has increased mess charges to ensure nutritious and wholesome food for students. He mandated that meals must be provided strictly according to the menu.

Maintenance of hygiene: Schools must maintain utmost cleanliness and hygiene within their premises.

Regular medical check-ups: Students must undergo regular medical examinations.

Officials’ responsibility: Minister Prabhakar unequivocally stated that officials will be held responsible for any incident that occurs in gurukuls.

The meeting underscored the government’s commitment to ensuring a safe, healthy and conducive learning environment in all BC Gurukuls, with a clear warning against any dereliction of duty.