Daijiworld Media Network – Vijayapura

Vijayapura, May 18: In a key announcement ahead of the new academic year, minister for school education and literacy Madhu Bangarappa confirmed that state-run schools across Karnataka will reopen on May 29.

The minister stated that a warm welcome awaits students, with public representatives and officials set to personally visit government schools on reopening day.

Speaking to media persons in Muddebihal on Saturday, Bangarappa confirmed that textbooks and uniforms will be distributed to students on the day of reopening.

“Shoes and socks will also be given in a phased manner,” he said, adding that a strict policy is being drafted to ensure the timely distribution of all learning essentials at the start of every academic session.

The minister also shed light on a new initiative to introduce moral education in schools, as suggested by Chief Minister Siddaramaiah. “This year, moral science will be a part of the curriculum right from pre-primary to PUC level, aimed at imparting value-based education and nurturing human values among children,” Bangarappa revealed.

Addressing infrastructural concerns, the minister highlighted that Karnataka has over 46,000 schools, some of which performed poorly in the recent SSLC examinations. He assured that corrective measures will be taken to improve results, stating, “Children are appearing for exams with sincerity, and incidents of malpractice have significantly reduced.”

Bangarappa proudly pointed out that Karnataka has become the first state in the country to implement a webcasting system during examinations—a model now being followed in national-level tests as well.

Touching upon administrative gaps, the minister admitted there is a shortage of deputy directors of public instruction (DDPIs) and block education officers (BEOs). “Appointments and promotions are being planned, and final decisions will be made upon the recommendations of the in-charge minister,” he informed.