Samastha to Propose Practical Solutions on Extended School Hours in Talks with Govt

Fast Summary

• Background: Sunni scholars’ forum Samastha Kerala Jem-iyyathul Ulama and its affiliate organisations expressed concerns over additional instructional hours introduced in State syllabus schools for Classes VIII-X.
• Details of Protest: The new schedule, adding 15 minutes in the morning and afternoon daily (except Fridays), was opposed by Samastha citing interference wiht madrasa classes held early in the morning.
• Memoranda & unanswered Concerns: Samastha claimed there had been no response from officials to their memorandum submitted before the timing changes were implemented. Talks were also not conducted prior to implementation, prompting plans for protests across Kerala by affiliated organisations.
• Government’s Stance: General Education Minister V. Sivankutty contacted syed Mohammed Jifri Muthukoya Thangal, president of Samastha, on July 14 indicating openness to dialog on resolving the issue.
• Quote from Leadership: M.T Abdulla Musliyar highlighted that proposals would be made during discussions but warned protests could intensify if suggestions are not heeded, emphasizing religious education’s importance within Islamic teachings as inseparable from general education norms.

Indian Opinion Analysis

The opposition expressed by Samastha reflects a deeper tension between educational regulations aiming to maximize instructional hours under frameworks such as the Right to Education act and religious practices integral to communities like Kerala’s Muslim population. Religious education holds significant cultural value among adherents, which may lead stakeholders like Samastha to perceive any disruptions as undermining their way of life.

Resolving this issue through dialogue appears crucial for balancing statutory requirements and communal priorities without exacerbating divisions or triggering widespread demonstrations across Kerala-a state renowned for its commitment to both secularism and diversity.

Educational policymakers might need structured consultations with representatives of all groups affected before implementing systemic changes like altered school timings while prioritizing inclusivity and respecting existing traditions.

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