1,157 Kerala schools deemed ‘unfit’; Zumba programme faces objections

Kerala’s Local Self Government Department (LSGD) has identified 1,157 schools with buildings deemed “unfit” for classes. Of these, 875 are government schools, 262 are aided institutions, and 20 are unaided schools. District-wise, Kollam has 143 affected schools, Alappuzha 134, and Thiruvananthapuram 120.

According to an ANI report, in a written reply to Karunagappally MLA CR Mahesh, General Education Minister V Sivankutty said the government is addressing the issue through new construction under plan funds and KIIFB projects, alongside separate maintenance allocations.

“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,” the minister said.

All schools will have to secure fitness certificates from their respective local authorities before reopening each academic year, as per current regulations.

Zumba sessions introduced for student well-being

Kerala also introduced Zumba sessions in schools earlier this year to encourage physical activity and support student well-being. ANI reported that Roma Mansoor, a certified International Zumba Fitness instructor, said the programme helps students manage stress, increase confidence, and maintain fitness.

Some community groups have raised objections after the state education department introduced Zumba dance in schools. ANI reported that Muslim organisations in Thiruvananthapuram criticised the sessions, citing concerns over boys and girls dancing together.

TK Ashraf, General Secretary of the Wisdom Islamic Organisation, said he and his son would not participate. Ashraf made a brief but direct statement opposing the initiative, saying, “Cannot accept this, and my son and I will not participate in this." Samastha Kerala Jamiyyathul Ulama leader Nassar Faizy Koodathai also opposed the initiative.

Also read Kerala minister Sivankutty forgot assurances to management of aided Christian schools: Archbishop Tharayil

Department clarifies Zumba is voluntary

ANI cited an education department official stating that the Zumba programme is voluntary and intended to support mental and physical health while discouraging drug use.

Minister Sivankutty defended the sessions, further noting that students perform in school uniforms and that objections could negatively affect societal well-being.

Minister Sivankutty said, "No one has asked children to wear minimal clothes. Children are wearing school uniforms and performing this." CPI(M) general secretary MA Baby also supported the initiative, calling the criticisms “absolutely untrue.”