Education Minister V Sivankutty Interacts With Students, Highlights Digital, Welfare Reforms at 'Next Gen Mukhamukham' Program

Thiruvananthapuram: Kerala General Education Minister V Sivankutty directly interacted with students and responded to their questions about the future of the state at the ‘Next Gen Mukhamukham’ program organised by CIMAT under the Department of General Education.

The event was held at Nemom Azhangal footpath in Thiruvananthapuram and saw participation from students representing various schools across the city. During the interaction, students shared their views, concerns and aspirations related to education and their future.

Addressing the gathering, the Minister said digital lessons would be made accessible through QR codes as part of integrating new technologies into textbooks. He added that greater emphasis would be placed on continuous assessment methods that evaluate students’ creativity and overall development, rather than focusing solely on examination marks.

He also stated that initiatives such as the ‘Hello English’ project are being implemented to enhance English communication skills in government schools. Alongside high-tech laboratories, the government is prioritising the development of smart libraries in schools.

Highlighting student welfare, the Minister said the government attaches great importance to the physical and mental health of children. Nutritional supplements, including milk and eggs, are currently provided under the mid-day meal scheme, and steps are being taken to further strengthen the program. Special counselling facilities will be introduced to help reduce exam-related stress and anxiety, and “drug-free campus” campaigns will be intensified. Students will also be given enhanced awareness on cyber security.

He added that curriculum reforms have been introduced to promote gender justice, and special mentors have been appointed to support the education of children in tribal and indigenous communities.

SCERT Director Dr. R. K. Jayaprakash moderated the session. General Education Secretary Dr. K. Vasuki IAS also attended the program.